Luimneach Abú once more as Cork's famine continues

A Limerick supporter among the Cork fans during the All-Ireland SHC final at Croke Park. Picture: Eddie O'Hare

The green and white ribbons will stay on the Liam MacCarthy Cup for another year and while the famine goes on for Cork fans, for lovers of hurling, today's record-breaking encounter marked another milestone back to something like normality.

Croke Park may have only been half full and the trophy ceremony was a hands-off affair, but the anticipation and excitement synonymous with All-Ireland hurling finals were still in evidence, the colour and noise generated in the stadium in contrast to the eerie atmosphere of last year's decider.