Clare hurling selector Michael Browne says failure to build a substantial lead proved costly for the Banner in their opening Allianz League clash with Galway.
Davy Fitzgeralds side were beaten 2-15 to 1-17 by the Tribesmen in Salthill, with two late Jason Flynn points sealing the win.
Clare led by three points with 15 minutes to play, but a Joseph Cooney goal set up a dramatic finish.
Crusheen man Browne says it just wasn't the Banners day
Elsewhere in Division 1A, Dublin had a 2-20 to 0-14 win over Tipperary, while Kilkenny beat Cork 1-22 to 2-17
The draws for the 2015 Clare Hurling and Football Championships will be made tonight.
This year sees a new structure for the Hurling Championship, with the group stages system no longer in operation.
The hurling structure will mirror that of the senior football, with an open draw being made for eight first round games.
The draws will be broadcast live here on Clare FM from the West County Hotel, getting underway at 8pm.
That comes in association with Manix Menswear Lower Market Street Ennis
