Ballygunner have booked their place in the semi-finals of the JJ Kavanagh & Sons Waterford Senior Hurling Championship after overcoming a determined Lismore side 1-19 to 1-11 in Cappaquinn Logistics Fraher Field.

It was far from a straightforward afternoon for the reigning champions, with Lismore producing an impressive performance and repeatedly putting Ballygunner under pressure.

The sides were closely matched for long periods, with Lismore reducing the deficit to just a point after Ben O’Sullivan found the net. However, Ronan Power’s goal proved decisive, restoring breathing room for Ballygunner at a crucial stage of the second half.

Pauric Mahony was sprung from the Gunners bench to score 6 pointed frees and settle the All-Ireland Club Champions.

Ballygunner then used their experience to manage the closing stages, with the lead eventually stretching to eight points by the final whistle.

Lismore continued to push right until the end, with goalkeeper Seánie Barry producing an excellent late save to deny Ballygunner a second goal.

Despite the defeat, Lismore can take considerable credit for their performance, while Ballygunner now advance to the last four of the Waterford Senior Hurling Championship.

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