All-Ireland Hurling Semi-Final Preview: Clare v Kilkenny

Clare v Kilkenny Showdown

The much-anticipated All-Ireland semi-final clash sees Clare and Kilkenny face off for the third consecutive year. With Kilkenny emerging victorious in the past two encounters, the stakes are high for Clare to turn the tide. Kilkenny secured their semi-final spot as Leinster champions, while Clare advanced as the beaten Munster finalists and All-Ireland quarter-final winners.

Championship Journey to Date

Clare’s Path

– **Limerick 3-15 Clare 1-18 (Munster round robin)**
– **Clare 3-26 Cork 3-24 (Munster round robin)**
– **Clare 4-21 Waterford 2-26 (Munster round robin)**
– **Clare 1-24 Tipperary 0-24 (Munster round robin)**
– **Limerick 1-26 Clare 1-20 (Munster final)**
– **Clare 2-28 Wexford 1-19 (All-Ireland quarter-final)**

With a record of four wins and two losses, Clare has shown resilience throughout the championship. Key players like A. McCarthy and M. Rodgers have been instrumental in their journey, contributing significantly to their scoring tally.

Kilkenny’s Path

– **Kilkenny 5-30 Antrim 0-13**
– **Galway 2-23 Kilkenny 0-29**
– **Carlow 1-20 Kilkenny 1-20**
– **Kilkenny 1-28 Dublin 2-23**
– **Kilkenny 1-24 Wexford 2-20**
– **Kilkenny 3-28 Dublin 1-18 (Leinster final)**

Kilkenny remains the only unbeaten team in this year’s championship, with four wins and two draws. Their impressive performance is highlighted by the contributions of top scorers like TJ Reid and J. Donnelly.

Head-to-Head History

In their previous nine championship meetings, Kilkenny has dominated with seven wins, one draw, and Clare’s lone victory dating back to the 1997 All-Ireland semi-final. This historical dominance by Kilkenny adds extra pressure on Clare to change the narrative in this crucial match.

Clare’s Recent Success Against Kilkenny

Clare has shown promising form against Kilkenny this season, winning both encounters. They triumphed 0-19 to 0-16 in the Allianz League group game in Ennis and secured a 3-16 to 1-20 victory in the final in Thurles. However, their last championship win over Kilkenny was in the 1997 All-Ireland semi-final, highlighting the significance of this upcoming clash.

Championship Meeting History

This will be the tenth championship meeting between the two teams. Kilkenny’s track record of seven wins out of nine meetings showcases their historical dominance, while Clare looks to even the score and secure a crucial victory.

Kilkenny’s Unbeaten Streak

Kilkenny stands out as the only unbeaten team in this year’s hurling championship, with four wins and two draws. This impressive record sets a high bar for Clare, who have lost once to Limerick. Both teams have shown their mettle, but Kilkenny’s consistency makes them a formidable opponent.

Recent Championship Performances

Kilkenny’s recent semi-final performances have been strong, including victories over Clare in 2022 and 2023. Clare, on the other hand, has struggled in recent semi-finals, with their last win dating back to 2013 against Limerick. This contrast in recent form adds an intriguing dimension to this year’s semi-final.

As Clare and Kilkenny prepare to face off, the stage is set for a thrilling encounter. Will Kilkenny continue their unbeaten run, or will Clare break their semi-final curse and make history? Stay tuned for an epic showdown at the All-Ireland semi-final.

CLARE: Eibhear Quilligan; Adam Hogan, Conor Cleary, Conor Leen; Diarmuid Ryan, John Conlon, David McInerney; David Fitzgerald, Cathal Malone; Tony Kelly, Mark Rodgers, Peter Duggan; Aidan McCarthy, Shane O’Donnell, David Reidy. Subs: Cian Broderick, Rory Hayes, Paul Flanagan, Cian Galvin, Darragh Lohan, Ryan Taylor, Ian Galvin, Aron Shanagher, Shane Meehan, Keith Smyth, Seán Rynne.

KILKENNY: Eoin Murphy; Mikey Butler, Huw Lawlor, Tommy Walsh; David Blanchfield, Richie Reid, Mikey Carey; Cian Kenny, Paddy Deegan; Adrian Mullen, TJ Reid, John Donnelly; Martin Keoghan, Billy Ryan, Eoin Cody. Subs: Aidan Tallis, Conor Delaney, Shane Murphy, Jordan Molloy, Cillian Buckley, Conor Fogarty, Tom Phelan, Walter Walsh, Owen Wall, Conor Heary, Gearoid Dunne.

Davy Fitzgerald Resigns as Waterford Hurling Manager

Davy Fitzgerald has announced his resignation as Waterford hurling manager after two seasons. The Clare native, who had another year remaining on his three-year contract, decided to step down from his position.

Fitzgerald’s Tenure and Achievements

Fitzgerald, who previously managed Waterford from 2008 to 2011, returned to the helm following the 2022 season. During his tenure, he led Waterford to notable victories in the Munster Senior Hurling Championship, including wins over Tipperary in 2023 and Cork at the start of the 2024 campaign. However, despite these successes, the team ultimately did not advance from the province in both years.

Official Statement from Fitzgerald

Fitzgerald confirmed his resignation in a statement released on Tuesday night. He expressed his gratitude to the players and his backroom team, highlighting their efforts and the narrow margins that prevented the team from making Munster’s top three and progressing to the 2024 All-Ireland championship.

“After careful consideration, I have decided to step down as manager of the Waterford senior hurling team,” Fitzgerald stated. “I would like to sincerely thank the players for their efforts over the last two years. Just the tiniest of margins prevented us from making Munster’s top three this year and progressing to the 2024 All-Ireland championship.”

Optimism for Waterford’s Future

Despite his departure, Fitzgerald remains optimistic about Waterford’s potential. “It’s my firm belief that the talent is there for Waterford to compete strongly at hurling’s highest level again,” he said. He also expressed his gratitude to his backroom team and Waterford GAA officials for their unwavering support during his tenure.

Acknowledgments from Waterford GAA

Waterford GAA chairperson, Sean Michael O’Regan, extended his thanks to Fitzgerald, acknowledging the significant impact he had on the team. “We sincerely thank Davy for his hard work and dedication over the past two years. His impact on the team has been significant, and we wish him the very best in his future endeavours,” O’Regan stated.

Looking Ahead

As Fitzgerald steps down, the search for a new manager begins. Waterford GAA will look to build on the foundation laid by Fitzgerald and strive for success in future championships. But will Davy Fitzgerald end up in Dublin or Galway?