CLARE collected their first points in Division Two when they overcame Monaghan at Cusack Park, Ennis yesterday. It was a win which the home side deserved, but as in their earlier rounds, they were again guilty of many missed opportunities and the result of this game was in doubt right to the very end.

Both sides created many scoring opportunities in the first half, but poor finishing meant that the scoring was low. At half time Clare lead 0-4 to 0-2.

Throughout the second half matters were again evenly contested and it was only in the final minutes, when Martin Daly scored Clare's goal, that the home side could relax.

Best for the winners were Barry Keating, Donal O'Sullivan, Michael Hynes, Alan Malone, James Hanrahan and Martin Daly. Monaghan had good performances from John O'Connor, Gerry McGuirk, Pauric McDonnell and Frank McEneaney.