Laois will meet Carlow in the Leinster hurling quarter-final after a six-point win over Antrim at O’Moore Park.
Tommy Fitzgerald scored an early goal for Séamus Plunkett’s side who followed Carlow’s lead in progressing, after their neighbours beat London at Dr Cullen Park this afternoon.
Craig Doyle got three goals for the Barrowsiders, who led 1-7 to 0-5 at the break thanks to Seán Murphy’s goal after 31 minutes. Galway native Gerard Hennelly chipped in with three points for the Christy Ring Cup champions.
Five minutes into the second half, Doyle, a first half sub, scored the first of his three goals and John Meyler’s side extended their lead to 10 points midway through the second half with further scores from Marty Kavanagh, Doyle and Richard Coady.
The Exiles hit back with a brace of goals from Martin Duggan and Luke Hands, reducing the gap to just four points with 13 minutes left.
Two minutes later, Doyle netted his second of the game to ease Carlow nerves and then he settled the tie with his third and Carlow’s fourth.
Leinster SHC results
Laois 1-16 Antrim 0-13
Carlow 4-17 London 2-13