Clare come back to beat Kilkenny and reach All-Ireland final

James Cox

Clare have beaten Kilkenny to reach the All-Ireland Hurling Final for the first time since 2013.

The Banner just edged Kilkenny in the semi-final by 0-24 to 2-16 at Croke Park after a brilliant fightback in the second-half.

It was a first Championship win for Clare over the Cats since 1997.

Kilkenny’s Richie Reid and Shane O'Donnell of Clare. Photo: James Crombie/Inpho

Kilkenny held a 1-10 to 0-8 at half-time after a brilliant goal from Eoin Cody. In the 47th minute, Clare found themselves six points down after a goal from Billy Ryan.

However, they fought back, with the crucial points coming from Mark Rodgers, Aidan McCarthy and Tony Kelly.

Clare’s David Reidy celebrates with his partner Jenny McCarthy. Photo: Ryan Byrne/Inpho

They will face the winner of Limerick vs Cork, which takes place on Sunday, on Sunday, July 21st.

Kilkenny will be left to regret other goal chances they missed in the first-half, but Clare deserve huge credit for their performance.