Eleven points from Tony Kelly proved crucial as Clare took victory over Wexford this afternoon.
Kelly’s man-of-the-match performance was even more important as Clare lost Captain John Conlon to a tough red card for a high tackle shortly before the half time break.
Clare raced to a commanding eight point half-time lead with the aid of a strong wind, with the score board showing 0-12 to 0-4 after 35 minutes.
The same wind turned against Clare in the second half as Wexford fought to close the gap.
Davy Fitzgerald’s side managed to get within a point of Clare on several occasions, but each time Kelly or Fitzgerald swooped in to extend the gap.
The strong efforts of David Fitzgerald, Shane O’Donnell and Ryan Taylor who scored throughout cannot be underestimated, nor can that of the Clare defenders who faced an unenviable challenge in the second half.
Jack O’Connor was the standout Wexford player – but Clare couldn’t be overcome in the end and it finished up a three point victory for the Banner.
Final score: Clare 0-18, Wexford 0-15.