Reigning Clare Senior Hurling Champions Ballyea have lost their chance of retaining the Canon Hamilton Cup after defeat to Newmarket in Cusack Park on Saturday evening.
The 2016 All Ireland club finalists held early control of the game until a goal turned the tide for the Blues just before the half time whistle.
The mid-way score saw the sides 1-8 to 1-5 in favour of Newmarket.
The gap to extended to five points as the second half progressed until a bad tackle in the box handed Tony Kelly a crucial opportunity to reduce it to two points.
But his powerful shot was intercepted perfectly by Newmarket goalie Ronan McCormack, and three minutes of additional time failed to produce another chance for Ballyea.
The Blues progress to the last four after their 1-16 to 1-12 win, where they join Clooney/Quin, who beat Eire Óg, and Sixmilebridge, who beat Cratloe, and the winner of tomorrow’s Clonlara/Tulla clash.
Live online commentary of that game on clare.fm in association with O’Sullivan Hansbury Motors, Kilrush Road, Ennis.