Ballyhale exit, relief in Antrim

Ballyhale will not be involved in the Kilkenny SHC final for the first time since 2017 following a 0-21 to 1-16 loss to Thomastown.

Indeed, it's the first time the Shamrocks have exited before the semi-final stage since their 2004 quarter-final replay loss to O’Loughlin Gaels.

For Thomastown, their dream 2024 continues having claimed the All-Ireland Intermediate title back in January.

Robbie Donnelly scored heavily in that Croke Park win over Castlelyons and he opened the scoring here with a brace of frees before Luke Connellan added to that early platform.

They led 0-07 to 0-03 midway through the first half, their lead protected by Diarmuid Galway’s fantastic save from Adrian Mullen’s low drive.

Ballyhale were finding their rhythm though and were level after 26 minutes before Zach Bay Hammond and Robbie Donnelly gave Thomastown a 0-12 to 0-10 interval lead.

Robbie Donnelly added four more on the resumption, Colm Treacy also on target, to stretch the lead to seven before the returning Colin Fennelly flicked to the net to get his side back into it, but it was Thomastown who finished stronger with Stephen Donnelly and Robbie Donnelly helping them over the line.

There was relief for Antrim officials as their first football semi-final between Portglenone and Lámh Dhearg proceeded as planned, with former Derry attacker Enda Lynn starring as Portglenone claimed an impressive 1-17 to 0-09 win.

Enda Lynn was in fine form for Portglenone

Creggan Kickhams had lodged an objection amid an 'extra man' claim following their quarter-final defeat to Lámh Dhearg.

Creggan had initially lost an appeal at county level before opting to go to Ulster GAA, but their decision to withdraw that appeal before Friday’s scheduled hearing meant the programme could continue as scheduled.

Portglenone had lost five successive semi-finals but there was never any fear of a sixth with Stephen Kelly scoring the only goal of the game as they reached their first final since 2009.

Knockmore and Ballaghaderreen booked Mayo semi-final spots after wins on Saturday.

Knockmore essentially booked their final spot in the first half as they struck for three goals in the 3-08 to 0-05 win over Garrymore - Darren McHale (2) and Keith Ruttledge on target.

Earlier in the day, Ballaghaderreen were 2-08 to 0-08 winners over Ballintubber with Kuba Callaghan and David McBrien grabbing their goals.

Kilcoo are back in the final as they chase a 12th Down title in 13 seasons.

Division 3 outfit Glenn were back in the semi-final for the second year in a row, but Karl Lacey’s side eased to a 0-17 to 0-10 victory.

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