GAA Round-up:Kilkenny were rarely troubled as they comfortably defeated Wexford in their Leinster SHC semi-final at Wexford Park. As the curtain-raiser to tonight's game, the Wexford footballers won easily against Westmeath in the Leinster SFC quarter-final at the same venue.
Kilkenny eased past Wexford with plenty to spare as they ran out 1-26 to 1-15 winners. Wexford may have been within five-points (1-14 to 10-9) at the break but the Cats forged further ahead in the second period.
Richie Hogan was on target for the Cats’ goal in the ninth minute while Jim Berry found the Kilkenny goal from an injury time free at the end of the first half.
Kilkenny often play with a swagger and when they find their range there are few teams who can live with them. The fact all six forwards scored on the night illustrated their scoring prowess.
Wexford were unfortunate their captain Darren Stamp was rulled out with injury before the throw-in, which made the Model Country’s task all the more difficult.
So many Kilkenny players found their range but Henry Shefflin was worth special mention after firing over a number of frees and well-taken 65s.
“It is terrific to see him,” said Kilkenny manager Brian Cody. “Everyone was wondering if we would see him back again for Kilkenny, but his free-taking from the start was superb and he gave the team great confidence.”
Hogan had another gilt-edged chance of goal in the second half but his effort rebounded off the woodwork, the third time for Kilkenny.
It was an imperious performance by Kilkenny in front the 23,000 crowd and now they await the winners of next weekend's Galway versus Dublin semi-final to find out who they play in the Leinster decider.
Earlier Wexford totally outclassed Westmeath 1-24 to 0-15 in their Leinster SFC quarter-final encounter at Wexford Park.
Wexford were good value for their win and in many ways carried through the form they showed against Offaly in the previous preliminary round. So dominant was the display they were able to coast over the line in the latter stages.
Redmond Barry’s first minute goal set the scene as Wexford went into the break 1-12 to 0-09 ahead. It was one of the fastest championship goals after just 24 seconds. He took a pass from the throw-in and made space to fire home in fine style.
If Ciaran Lyng was impressive with his personal 0-10 tally then mention must also go to Dessie Dolan, who put 0-09 on the scoreboard for the visitors.
The second period didn’t get any better for Westmeath and by the time Pat Flanagan’s men trailed 1-18 to 0-10, the writing was on the wall. When Adrian Flynn pointed for the winners it was eight points on the spin and without reply.
Rory Quinlivan put the final icing on the cake for the Model County in the final minute as Jason Ryan's can now look forward to a semi-final date against either Carlow or Louth.