Holders The Nire got the better of rivals Rathgormack 2-9 to 1-10 in Fraher Field last night as Dylan Guiry and Shane Ryan struck second half goals. Stephen Curry found the net for Rathgormack while Jason Curry kicked five points.
In the game of the day, fourteen man Kilmacthomas snatched a draw in a spicy local derby against Kilrossanty (1-9 to 0-12). Sub Eoin Walsh swung over a 66th minute free for the 2018 intermediate champions.
Dylan Power saw red in the eighth minute but a goal from Adam Walsh early in the second half boosted the Eastern side.
Manager Benji Whelan felt that they competed strongly with last year's runners-up.
Their aim is to retain their senior status.
Stradbally defeated Portlaw 2-15 to 0-9 in Leamybrien. Michael Walsh and Kevin Lawlor goaled for the Reds.
