Cregan plays starring role for classy Shannon

Shannon 41 Old Crescent 8

The tinny atmosphere was a far cry from the Thomond roar that rang across the city the previous night ,but, despite the public apathy, Shannon made no secret of their desire to become the first club to win the ancient trophy for a fifth season in succession, fielding as close to full-strength as possible on this occasion.

They need hardly have done so, such was their dominance in every facet of play against an Old Crescent side that had coach Matt T’ Pau, the former Tongan international, on duty after a lengthy spell of inactivity due to injury.