Clonlara defenders look on as Tony Kelly's 21 yard free finds the net. Photo : Ruth Griffin/Clare Echo

Ballyea and Clonlara played out a thrilling 1-17 to 2-14 draw at Cratloe's Páirc Micheál Uí hEithir, leaving Group 1 of the Clare TUS SHC finely poised heading into the final round.

A much improved Ballyea appeared on course for victory after building a two-point lead deep into injury time, but credit Clonlara who refused to give in. Aidan Moriarty sat back and calmly collected a brilliant sideline cut from Micheál O’Loughlin to level the contest with virtually the last puck of the game.

The sides had been level seven times and exchanged the lead on six occasions in an enthralling encounter. Tony Kelly was at his outstanding best for Ballyea, contributing 1-12, including the crucial goal from a 21 yard free and a series of second-half points.

Clonlara’s second goal came from John Conlon who received a turnover from O'Loughlin after Ballyea's keeper Barry Coote had been pickpocketed emerging from his defence. Conlon deftly lobbed a ball into a vacant goal. Micheál O’Loughlin also impressed in the tie with five points. The result leaves everything to play for in the final round, with both sides still firmly in contention for a quarter-final place. Ballyea will face St Joseph's who will be battling to avoid relegation while Clonlara, now with three valuable championship points , take on table toppers Inagh- Kilnamona.