Kilkenny v Waterford

All Ireland Final 2008. Demolition Day. Kilkenny 3-30 Waterford 1-13.

Kilkenny’s Hurling Machine of 2006-2015 probably peaked on this day and their first half performance in particular was the most ruthless and perfect an All Ireland Final display that most Hurling pundits can recall.

Chasing their first 3 in a row since 1913, Kilkenny were in no mood to allow the neutrals favourite’s to stand in their way. A rather ill judged early attempt by the Deise to ‘out muscle’ Kilkenny was quickly quashed, and in true Kilkenny fashion, 2 goals by Eddie Brennan in as many minutes dealt a killer psychological blow.

By halftime Kilkenny had 2-16 versus 0-5 on the scoreboard meaning that Waterford would require the equivalent of 6 goals or 18 points without reply to go in front – an almost impossible task. I remember spotting Frank Cummins and a fan in conversation at the Hogan Stand Bar at half time shaking their heads in bewilderment at the latest standard Kilkenny had set. An emphatic way to take the lead in the Hurling Championship Honours over Cork.

Richie Hogan goal 2011

One of the purest hurling goals ever scored in Croke Park, Richie Hogan demonstrates the importance of old school instinctive hurling skills

Kilkenny V Tipperary 1967

Tough Tough Match from 1967. Some ferocious use of the Hurley in an era when Ground Hurling dominated and when a cloth cap rather than a protective helmet was considered sportsgear

Ollie Walsh in action versus Tipperary 1967