JAMES STEPHFNS (Kilkenny) were one of the first teams to qualify for the Leinster Club football championship, and they were also one of the first sides out of the competition when they were well-beaten by nominated Wexford representatives, Kilanerin at Nowlan Park on Saturday.

Last May. Stephens won the right to enter the competition. With only ten minutes of this match one they were on their way out of it after John Hegarty (2), Nicky Darcy and Paul Hughes had kicked unanswered points for the visitors.

At half-time, the Slaneysiders led by 1-6 to 0-2, top scorer Hegarty also getting the goal. While Kilanerin lost their way somewhat after the change of ends, they were never really troubled as they marched into the next round.