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RAIN. RAIN. Rain. The day broke badly, promising only the helter skelter of a greasy pitch at a time when we wanted a guarantee of history. By the time we had established that Tipperary’s passion for heaven was more intense and coherent than Kilkenny’s drive for five we could utter no complaints. We were sated and grateful. And Tipp were champions.

This second successive epic All-Ireland hurling final between these bluebloods was a fast forward reel of incredible moments: the quick as a fish genius of Tipperary’s Lar Corbett as he went about scoring the three goals which broke the greatest team in hurling history; the poignant sight of Henry Shefflin departing the stage after just 13 minutes; the visceral thrill of some of the hits and challenges; the dignity of Kilkenny in defeat; the unbounded joy of Tipperary.