Cork’s dreams of reaching back-to-back Electric Ireland All-Ireland Minor Hurling Finals came to a narrow end in Semple Stadium on Sunday, as a sharp-shooting Clare side edged a classic encounter by 0-27 to 1-21.

Despite the result, there was much to admire about the young Rebels’ performance in what was a pulsating semi-final packed with skill, resilience, and moments of brilliance from both sides.

Cormac Deane starred for Cork with 1-2 and a remarkable six assists, while Craig O’Sullivan (0-8, 6 frees) and Eoghan O’Shea (0-5) also impressed in a highly competitive shootout that saw the teams level 11 times.

Michael T Brosnan, Ryan Dineen, Sam Ring, and substitute Jack Counihan were also on target for Cork in a game that showcased the depth and determination in this promising panel.

After an early Clare burst, Cork hit the front through a stunning Deane goal, following a clever one-two with Ruairc Donovan. The Killeagh forward showed excellent composure and finishing to rifle low to the net in the fifth minute.

Wing-back Brosnan added two fine points, while Deane, O’Shea, and O’Sullivan kept Cork ticking on the scoreboard. The Munster champions trailed 0-15 to 1-10 at the break but responded superbly after the restart, briefly regaining the lead through quick scores from O’Sullivan and Deane.

The final quarter saw Clare string together a run of four points to nudge ahead, but Cork never backed down. Brosnan and O’Shea again closed the gap to the minimum entering added time.

As they had throughout the championship, Cork showed fight, creativity, and togetherness in abundance – a testament to the players, management, and clubs behind them. While the result didn’t go their way, this group can hold their heads high after a memorable season as Munster champions and All-Ireland semi-finalists.

Scorers for Cork:

Craig O’Sullivan 0-8 (6f), Cormac Deane 1-2, Eoghan O’Shea 0-5, Michael T Brosnan 0-3 (1f), Sam Ring 0-2, Ryan Dineen 0-1, Jack Counihan 0-1.