Kilkenny’s Under-21 hurlers were defeated by their Dublin counterparts at Nowlan Park on Tuesday night to set up a Leinster final decider against Wexford. Leading by four points at the break, Dublin fought off the defending champions’ challenge superbly, with the Cats failing to score during the opening 15 minutes of the second half. The overjoyed Metropolitans emerged victorious by 0-18 to 0-12.
Both Dublin’s Shane Stapelton and Kilkenny’s Mark Bergin (O’Loughlin Gaels) finished the match with seven point hauls respectively.
Meanwhile, Wexford had to face down a stern Carlow challenge at Wexford Park, providing evidence perhaps of a rising hurling tide in the Eastern province at underage level. Goals from James Gahan (direct from a sideline cut) and Jamie Wreck helped the Model side established a commanding 16 point lead by half-time. But a remarkable second half Carlow comeback, including goals from Paudie Kehoe and Alan McDonald saw them traling by just four points (2-17 to 2-13) come the final whistle.
Dublin, with home advantage, will face Wexford in the provincial final on Wednesday, July 14th.
