Reigning All-Ireland Champions, Ballyhale Shamrocks have remained on course to retain their title beating a brave Slaughtneil side, 2-24 to 2-19. 

In truth, five points flattered the Kilkenny outfit who were pushed all the way by the Derry champions.

Jerome McGuigan and Colin Fennelly traded first half majors as the Leinster men led by the minimum at the break.

Brendan Rogers’ goal in the second stanza kept his team in the hunt before a second major from Fennelly sent his team into the final.