Galway Rout Kilkenny in Leinster

Pearse Stadium was the scene of a major hurling upset as Galway dismantled a 14-man Kilkenny side with a clinical performance.

Manager Micheal Donoghue praised his four championship debutants for their composure and skill in the high-pressure environment.

Kilkenny, who have dominated the Leinster scene for years, appeared outmatched and struggled to recover after Donnelly's pivotal dismissal.

The emphatic victory establishes Galway as serious contenders for the title and leaves the reigning champions with significant questions ahead of their next fixture.