Kilkenny Defeats Dublin to Reach U20 All-Ireland Hurling Final vs Tipperary
Kilkenny has powered their way into the 2025 oneills.com U20 All-Ireland Hurling Final, where they’ll face Tipperary in a showdown we haven’t seen at this level since 2008. That iconic clash back then featured legends like TJ Reid and Seamus Callanan. This time, the Cats are heading to the big stage after a dominant 2-21 to 0-17 win over Dublin in Portlaoise.
ICYMT: Seán Currie Believes Niall Ó Ceallacháin Has Added Vital Percent to the Team’s Performance Now
Fast Start Sets the Tone
From the very beginning, Kilkenny looked sharp. Rory Glynn found the net just five minutes in, immediately setting the tone. Dublin had their moments, especially just before halftime with nice scores from Brendan Kenny and Senan Crosbie, but a second yellow card to Fionn Murphy right at the start of the second half put them on the back foot. Kilkenny took full advantage and kept control of the game from there, outscoring Dublin 0-10 to 0-06 in the second half.
Solid at Both Ends
The Cats impressed not just in attack but in defense too. Stephen Manogue pulled off a brilliant save to deny Crosbie a crucial goal, and the full-back line was rock solid. On the scoring side, Kilkenny got points from all over the field – Ed Lauhoff, Tom McPhillips, and Anthony Ireland Wall all chipped in, while Michael Brennan stood out with eight points, including five from frees.
Dublin Tried, But Kilkenny Had the Edge
Dublin supporters will admit Kilkenny were the better side overall. Even Conal Ó Riain dropping back as a sweeper didn’t throw Kilkenny off their rhythm. They calmly worked the ball out of defense and found scores from distance. Aaron McEvoy’s goal after a bursting solo run was another highlight that showed Kilkenny’s confidence on the ball.
Missed Chances and Tactical Changes
Dublin tried to adjust, especially after their semi-final success using a two-man full forward line. But against Kilkenny, that setup didn’t click. After halftime, manager Fintan Clandillon looked to switch to a more traditional approach – only for Murphy’s red card to throw a wrench in their plans. Despite the efforts of Kenny, Lucey, and Crosbie, Dublin just couldn’t keep up.
Final Showdown Set
This was Kilkenny’s fourth straight game winning by at least seven points. They’ve yet to concede more than 18 scores in any game, while Tipperary have racked up 22 or more in every game since their opening loss to Limerick. The stage is set for a thrilling final. Something’s got to give when these two giants collide.
