Offaly clinched a nail-biting victory over Kilkenny with a score of 2-17 to 2-16 in Tullamore last night, securing their place in the Leinster under-20 hurling final. This win gives them a shot at claiming back-to-back titles for the first time since 1992.
The hero of the night was Shane Rigney, whose impressive tally of 2-3 was crucial in Offaly’s narrow one-point win. Rigney’s performance was complemented by the remarkable goalkeeping of Liam Hoare, who made a series of outstanding saves. Hoare’s efforts included a critical penalty stop that denied Kilkenny’s Gearóid Dunne in the second half.
Despite goals from Niall Shorthall and Harry Shine, Kilkenny fell just short. Reflecting on the match, Kilkenny manager Mark Dowling remarked on the unfortunate timing of their goals. “I can remember two fantastic saves outside of the penalty. And yeah, look, another day they go in. Unfortunately, the goals just wouldn’t come for us. We had goals in previous matches, and we have that forward line who are dangerous. The goals just wouldn’t seem to come, and when they did, I just felt it was a fraction too late.”
In another semi-final clash, Dublin emerged victorious against Galway with a commanding 4-17 to 20-point win in Portlaoise, thanks in part to David Purcell’s impressive contribution of 2-1.
The final showdown is set for next Wednesday, where Offaly will face Dublin in what promises to be an exciting contest for the Leinster under-20 hurling crown.