After several of their more experienced players opted out, the Blues mentors were forced to introduce a couple of newcomers and were on a hiding to nothing against their more experienced West Cork rivals.

Their problems were further compounded when they lost full-back Kevin Harrington through injury after seven minutes. They moved Graham Canty from centre to full-back where he played a blinder and with inter- county colleague Philip Clifford sparkling at full forward, the Blues held off a late Clon rally.

Clonakilty will be disappointed at this setback. After a shaky start, they went on to lead 0-5 to 0-3 at half time but given the strength of the wind they had to their backs, it was never going to be enough. Clon now play the losers of the CIT/Newcestown game in round two.