Galway Hammer Kilkenny in Leinster

Manager Micheál Donoghue credited the energy and attitude of his four championship debutants for invigorating the squad after a period of inconsistency.

Kilkenny, who were seeking a sixth consecutive title, suffered their worst provincial defeat in 36 years as they struggled to cope with Galway's pace and precision.

The result marks a significant shift in the Leinster landscape, positioning Galway as the new favorites for the crown.

Kilkenny boss Derek Lyng admitted his side was 'miles off the pace' and faces a difficult path to recovery.