'We are here to bring Liam home': Rival Cork and Clare fans in high spirits ahead of Croke Park clash

Cork fans Eddie and Oliver Delaney from Glanmire at the All-Ireland hurling final against Clare at Croke Park. Picture: Eddie O'Hare

Dublin's north inner city is a sea of red and white and blue and yellow as excitement builds ahead of the All Ireland hurling final.

Since 8am fans young and old — in jerseys, hats, face painted, and waving flags - have been heading towards Croke Park and there is almost a carnival-like atmosphere as Cork prepare to take on close rivals Clare.

Since early morning, excited fans have been arriving in the capital to  enjoy the party atmosphere ahead of the 3.30pm throw in.

Beer is flowing out of every pub around the venue while there's a strong smell of chips and vinegar is in the air.

These fans spoke to the Irish Examiner on Jones Road as the waited for the turnstiles to open.

Six-year-old Adam O’Dell from Corofin Co Clare traveled up “to bring Liam home” with his parents Mary and David.

The last time Clare won was in 2013 when they beat Cork.

“We travelled up this morning” said David. “We are here for the good cause.

“We are bringing Liam home and this is a good cause”.

While 13-year-old Matthew Wilson from Douglas came to Dublin for the match with his dad Kevin.

“We can’t wait” he said. “We will do it I think so, it’ll be tough but we can do it”.

Ellie Walsh 15, travelled from Kilworth with her father Brian for the match.

“We can’t wait, it’ll be 75-25 to Cork, this is ours”.