It’s hard writing about this game. Having watched Thurles Sarsfields up close from my role with Kilmallock, we’ve tried to move on from the defeat.

I have a problem with the All-Star awards and it’s this — where are those who are picking the teams from?

Much as thought they celebrated it at the time, I’d say a lot of Galway people are today half-wishing that Joe Canning had actually missed that last free in the drawn All-Ireland final a few weeks ago.

It’s strange to be discussing an All-Ireland senior hurling final in late September but what is even more unusual is the low key build up to this replay.

A word of advice to the youngsters who brought Clare its second U21 All-Ireland title in four years — this is only a step along the road.

What’s all this fuss about Joe Canning and what he said?

Before I talk about the game I want to compliment the GAA on the whole package yesterday.

As is my practice before All-Ireland finals, I visited both counties during the week and discovered contrasting moods.

Early on this year there was a major outcry in Tipperary when Lar Corbett left the panel — some were nearly in tears over it.

I really envy these players from Kilkenny and Tipperary.