LEINSTER MHC: Carlow 2-17 Meath 1-10: CARLOW SAW a second-half lead of 10 points shrink to four before the end as they advanced to a Leinster minor hurling championship semi-final against Kilkenny, following this victory over Meath at Dr Cullen Park on Saturday.

This was a mediocre display from the home county who were in control throughout the opening half. The spine of the team was strong with full back Gary Kelly sound, centre back Paudie Kehoe contributing 0-4, centre forward Eddie Byrne proving industrious while full forward Denis Murphy scored 0-8 of his side's tally. By half-time Carlow led 0-12 to 0-5.

By the 41st minute they were 0-16 to 0-6 ahead and looked to be coasting. But then Meath took over and out-scored Carlow 1-4 to 0-1 for the balance of play. Carlow manager Maurice Power said his side will need to show vast improvement on June 22nd at Nowlan Park.

SCORERS: Carlow: D Murphy 0-8, (0-6 frees, 0-1 line ball), P Kehoe (0-4, two frees, two 65s,) E Byrne, R Kent (0-2, each). T Nolan (0-1). Meath: D Carty (0-5, four frees), M Nolan (1-0), G Murphy (0-2, frees), J Mahady (0-1, line cut), M O'Sullivan, D Maguire (0-1 each).

Referee: T Carroll(Offaly).