Clonlara served notice of their intention to hold on to the Canon Hamilton with an eye catching 1-28 to 1-20 win over Ballyea.
The goal came late on for the winners through Ian Galvin, with Clonlara in control of the contest from the early stages.
The opening game of a Cusack Park double header saw Eire Og edge out Clooney-Quin by 1-20 to 3-13 after a rip roaring contest.
Wing back Robert Loftus was the man who fired over the winner for the Townies, who had Shane O’Donnell to thank for their green flag.
2023 beaten finalists Crusheen had a gritty 1-21 to 2-17 win over Newmarket, thanks in part to Fergus Kennedys first half goal.
Kilmaley put six goals past newcomers Corofin to win by 6-22 to 1-11.
It was a good day for the East Clare clubs in O’Garney Park, as Feakle saw off Cratloe by 0-23 to 1-16 and Scariff beat Inagh-Kilnamona by 0-24 to 0-20.
On Friday, Sixmilebridge beat St Joseph’s by 1-18 to 1-12 while Broadford were 2-17 to 0-19 winners against O’Callaghans Mills
