De Búrca’s decisive moment
On Sunday at Fraher Field, Clashmore-Kinsalebeg held a two-point advantage over Brickey Rangers. In the closing seconds, Waterford defender Tadhg De Búrca produced a catch and break from defence that kept the sliotar in his hand until the final whistle. The play confirmed the club’s first senior hurling status in its 141-year history.
Match highlights
Clashmore-Kinsalebeg finished 2-16 to 0-20. Luke Coughlan scored a late goal that proved priceless for the club. De Búrca finished with 0-3, while Waterford colleague Brian Lynch added 0-4. The team also featured Brian O’Halloran, who played in the 2017 All-Ireland final, and other senior-level players.
After the celebration
The club will celebrate its historic achievement before facing Kerry senior kingpins Abbeydorney in a Munster senior opener scheduled for early November 2027. The victory also avenged a loss to the same opponents at the same stage in 2024.
De Búrca’s resilience
De Búrca has endured significant injury hardship since 2019, including two cruciate ligament injuries and a torn Achilles. The win at Fraher Field is a moment of triumph after those setbacks.
Future prospects
With senior status secured, Clashmore-Kinsalebeg will now compete in the Munster senior championship. The club’s journey from 141 years of history to senior status marks a milestone that will be remembered for generations.
