CAPTAIN DJ Carey led Young Irelands to their first Kilkenny hurling title in a thrilling replay at Nowlan Park yesterday.

Carey was one of three brothers who contributed handsomely to the Gowran club's victory on a rain-soaked pitch in front of 15,000 spectators.

It was an uncompromising, energy-sapping final of dogged, rather than spectacular, hurling. In an electric finish, Jack Carey slammed home the winning goal past Francis Cantwell in the 58th minute.

Two first-half goals from DJ Carey, the first from a disputed free and the second from a penalty, laid a solid foundation for an ultimate success His personal tally was 2-4, and he played a major role in the winning goal.

Extra-time beckoned as DJ broke up a James Stephens attack on the left wing at halfway. His delivery to substitute Oliver Carter was inch perfect. Carter sent a cross to Charlie Carter who sent Jack Carey clear for a shot at Cantwell's net.

In the second half, with the wind at their backs, James Stephens showed early promise when Brian McEvoy, who had switched from midfield to attack, got lucky with what seemed a mis-hit to lob Martin Carey for a vital goal less than two minutes after the restart.

Ironically, it was DJ Carey who gave away the free that led to Brian McEvoy's second goal that levelled the scores with six minutes remaining.

James Stephens looked the stronger of the two at this stage, but DJ then started the move that caught the attack-minded James Stephens defence off guard for the winning goal.

Young lrelands full back Pat O'Neill, who played the game with pain killing injections for a foot injury, was emphatic when asked to compare this win with his All-Ireland success. "There is no comparison," he said "this is unbelievable."

DJ Carey, who will be the Kilkenny captain as a result of the win, said: "It's hard to compare, but at this moment I would give up all the medals I have ever won for this cup.