Kilkenny 1-22
Cork 2-17

Fintan O’Toole reports from Páirc Uí Rinn

ALL-IRELAND CHAMPIONS Kilkenny were short several established players tonight but it didn’t stop them from winning away from home in their opening Allianz Division 1A hurling league game.

Brian Cody’s side endured a nervy finish as Cork grabbed late goals from Luke O’Farrell and Conor Lehane to move back into contention. But ultimately Kilkenny held on for a two-point success and it was richly deserved.

Kilkenny were ahead 1-11 to 0-12 at the break with Jonjo Farrell firing the vital goal in the first-half when he scrambled the ball to the net in the 10th minute after Anthony Nash blocked Walter Walsh’s initial drive.

Kilkenny’s hurling was crisp and impressive tonight. Retirements, injuries and Ballyhale’s club campaign meant there team sheet had an unfamiliar look in places yet players like Mark Kelly and Walter Walsh put their hand up for recognition with strong, forceful displays.

Cork's Alan Cadogan and Kilkenny's Cillian Buckley. Ken Sutton / INPHO Ken Sutton / INPHO / INPHO

Richie Hogan produced flashes of his Hurler of the Year form, Lester Ryan hurled a world of ball at midfield while Paul Murphy, Jackie Tyrrell and Kieran Joyce helped ensure at the back that Kilkenny were largely watertight until Cork did generate a strong finish.

The scoring exchanges in a lively first-half were relentless with Patrick Horgan, Conor Lehane and Alan Cadogan striking some majestic points for Cork. It was 1-5 to 0-7 in Kilkenny’s favour by the 22nd minute and the teams stayed close to each other until the interval.

The terms of the second-half were set by Kilkenny as Cork’s performance level dipped notably. It was 1-14 to 0-13 in the 42nd minute but then Kilkenny took over to stretch eight clear.

Cork's players performed a guard of honour for Kilkenny before the game. Ken Sutton / INPHO Ken Sutton / INPHO / INPHO

Cork finally roused themselves in the closing stages. The contribution of their substitutes helped with Luke O’Farrell diverting a high ball to the net in the 63rd minute to breathe new life into their challenge. Kilkenny looked to have put the game to bed after that with some key points but Cork gave the home support one last cheer when Conor Lehane scrambled a late goal.

It was too little too late as Cork’s second-half fadeout ensured their night’s endeavours were fruitless. Next Saturday’s tie with Clare now assumes greater importance while Kilkenny headed home after a fine start to the league.

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