Clare will play in Division 1B of the Allianz National Hurling League in 2016 after a one point loss to Kilkenny.
A late Cillian Buckley point clinched a dramatic 1-18 to 1-17 win for the Cats.
The Banner led at half time by 1-8 to 1-7, with Shane O'Donnell goaling inside the opening three minutes, while TJ Reid responded in kind midway through the half.
Tony Kelly was outstanding throughout for Clare, but will rue his penalty miss on 26 minutes, which the Ballyea man sent wide.
The sides traded scores at will in the second half, with Kelly and O'Donnell to the fore for Davy Fitzgeralds side.
The game looked destined for extra time with the sides deadlocked as injury time loomed, but Buckleys long range effort ensured the Cats retained their top flight status.
