The MJK Oils  Muskerry junior A hurling championship got underway last weekend, Ballinora easily defeated Donoughmore last Saturday night in Blarney in round 1. The 2016 champions winning on a score line of 3-16 to 2-6. The game was effectively over at the break, as Ballinora led 3-10 to 1-5. Pat Fitton, Darragh Holmes and Mick Murphy got the goals in the opening 30 minutes to set them on the way to victory. David Howard stood out for the winners, with the vastly experienced forward registering eight points, four from placed balls. Shane Sexton impressed on a disappointing night for the losers, as he scored 1-4, the goal coming from the penalty spot. Shane Horgan got Donoughmore’s second goal, while Leon Cogan and Ger Buckley got a point each.

The junior A hurling championship continues this bank-holiday weekend with another opening round game. Last years beaten finalists Kilmichael play Blarney this Sunday in Coachford at 3pm. Kilmichael will be looking to build on a positive 2017 season, but face a difficult opening round test. Blarney lost out to Kilmichael by a point, 3-12 to 3-11 in a cracking quarter-final tie last year, on this occasion, Blarney might edge a close contest.