Queen's University returned to senior status on Saturday despite a 12-9 defeat by Highfield at Upper Malone. Johnny Patton, son of coach Keith, landed all of Queen's points.
Wynne Jarvis gave Highfield the lead with a drop-goal and a penalty to which Patton responded with two penalties. Jarvis landed two further drop-goals before Patton struck again.
Seven tries from Kilkenny earned them a 41-10 win in the other qualifying match against Westport.
Scott Norton touched down twice while the sons of two former internationals, Willie Duggan junior and Sean Byrne, also scored tries.
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