Mackessy Plays 65 Minutes For Kilkenny In Victory Over Clare

Kilkenny opened their National Hurling League campaign with a win over the defending champions.

They outlasted Clare to come away from Ennis with a 23 point to 21 victory in Division 1A this afternoon.

Former Kerry hurler made his debut for Kilkenny and played the first 65 minutes of the game.

Tipperary were impressive in their victory over Galway in Salthill.