Wexford end Kilkenny’s U20 Leinster hurling reign as Model County reaches final

Second half goals from Gearoid Dunne and Eoin O'Brien looked to have set up Kilkenny for a come from behind victory but a stunning individual effort from JJ Twamley helped Wexford turn the tide in a cracking affair.

With the aid of a strong enough breeze at their backs Wexford opened up a 0-9 to 0-5 half-time lead with Cian Byrne leading the charge for the Model county.

With the help of senior stars Timmy Clifford and subsequent goalscorer Gearoid Dunne, Mark Dowling's outfit bounced back and they led for the first time in the 47th minute.

The home side could never quite shake off their stubborn opponents though and although they went back into the lead during the five minutes of stoppage time, Wexford hit the last three points to claim a deserved win and set up a final date with Offaly.

Scorers - Wexford: Cian Byrne (0-10, 6f and 1 '65), JJ Twamley(1-0), C Byrne Dunbar (0-3), M Dundon (0-2), L Murphy, S O'Hagan, Cillian Byrne (0-1 each). Kilkenny: G Dunne (1-6, 3f and 1 '65), E O'Brien (1-0), T Clifford (0-3), L Connellan (0-2), E Lyng, K Doyle (0-1 each).

Wexford: D Mahon; S Roche, E Whelan, D Kehoe; C Murphy, M Dundon, C Foley; S Rowley, D Carley; Cian Byrne, C Byrne Dunbar, J Redmond; L Murphy, S O'Hagan, Cillian Byrne. Subs: D Purcell for Murphy (39), JJ Twamley for Cillian Byrne (41), D Farrell for Redmond (44), C Walsh for Murphy (58).

Kilkenny: S Manogue; P Lennon, S Purcell, J Neary; J Fitzpatrick, E Lyng, P Langton; B Reid, K Doyle; L Connellan, T Clifford, C Beirne; C Hackett, G Dunne, H Shine. Subs: T Dunne for Shine (H-T), I Bolger for Fitzpatrick (34), E O'Brien for Beirne (44).

Referee: C Mooney (Dublin).