For the first time since 2013 and only the fifth time ever, Clare has emerged as the All-Ireland Senior Hurling Champions.
In a gripping showdown at Croke Park yesterday, they defeated Cork with a final scoreline of 3-29 to 1-34 after extra time.
The match was a nail-biter from start to finish. The teams were level at half-time, full-time of regular play, and again at half-time during extra time, making it one of the most thrilling finals in recent memory.
The victory extends Cork’s wait for a 31st All-Ireland title into its 20th year, a bittersweet outcome for the Rebels who came agonizingly close to breaking their drought.
Clare had a shaky start, but captain Tony Kelly’s stellar performance proved pivotal. Kelly scored 1-4, rallying his team at crucial moments.
“Probably the greatest 1-04 ever scored in an All-Ireland final.”
— Tommy Rooney (@TomasORuanaidh) July 21, 2024
Joe Canning on Tony Kelly’s scores today. Even beyond this remarkable goal, Watching them all back, the points too, it’s so true. Draíocht
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Manager Brian Lohan praised his team’s resilience and highlighted Kelly’s significant impact. “I think how we responded after the first couple of minutes was crucial,” Lohan said. “Aido getting that goal brought us right back into it, and then we were able to relax a bit and I think we hurled well from there on. Tony just caught fire in the second half and on into extra-time.”
