- Henry Shefflin celebrates Kilkenny’s victory over neighbours Tipperary. Photo: Stephen McCarthy-Sportsfile
Kilkenny 2-22; Tipperary 0-23
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Breathtaking. Enthralling. Captivating. Should we see an All-Ireland hurling final as majestic as last Sunday’s again over the next decade, GAA fans everywhere will count their blessings.
This was one of the greatest deciders of this or any era. Speaking from personal experience in terms of finals one can recall, only the spellbinding 1986 and 1990 finals (both Cork/Galway classics) come close to the quality of the epic just passed.
It had everything: sublime point scoring at both ends, magnificent fielding from both defences, two of the finest saves you’re ever likely to see, a red card, a controversial penalty and a dramatic conclusion.
Not only did this match confirm that Tipperary are hurling’s coming force, destined to lift the MacCarthy Cup (to give it its proper spelling) within the next five years, it also consolidated Kilkenny’s greatness.
