Allianz HL D1: Kilkenny reach knockout stages
Billy Ryan celebrates after scoring a goal for Kilkenny against Laois at UPMC Nowlan Park.
Allianz Hurling League Division One Group B
KILKENNY 3-22 LAOIS 1-19
Brian Cody's Kilkenny chalked up another Allianz Hurling League victory to advance to the quarter-finals of the competition.
Laois, managed by former Kilkenny star Eddie Brennan, were spirited throughout, but the Cats had enough class to claim the spoils.
Billy Ryan's sixth minute goal signalled Kilkenny's intentions.
Alan Murphy and Laois custodian Enda Rowland, who nettetd a penalty, swapped goals as the interval approached with Kilkenny leading by 2-15 to 1-8 at half-time.
When the action recommenced Eoin Cody's 45th minute penalty pushed Kilkenny 3-19 to 1-13 clear.
In the closing stages Laois responded without ever truly threatening Kilkenny, who will be eager to make an impact in the knockout stages.
