Paul Rouse: 'In hurling terms, Cork is Tipperary with a sense of humour'

'We roll our eyes, of course, but mostly we smile because usually, Cork’s brand of confidence is cheerful and breezy. In hurling terms, Cork is Tipperary with a sense of humour

The famous Mackey vs Ring photograph taken at the 1957 Munster final by Justin Nelson. Mick Mackey, an umpire for the game, allowed a Tipperary goal which the referee over-ruled. Christy Ring, leaving the pitch injured, has words with Mackey. taken from Mick Mackey — Hurling Legend in a Troubled County by Henry Martin, published by The Collins Press, 2011

Cork hurlers long made much of the importance of their grand tradition. What defined this tradition most of all was winning. Across long sweeps of the 20th century, Cork stood as the most successful county in hurling history. This was something that was used to present a certain cockiness, even arrogance. This became a story of inherited greatness.

And it made perfect sense: it allowed Cork to approach All-Ireland finals bathed in the warm perception of imminent victory. The creation of an atmosphere where Cork were understood to be perennial contenders — even when the bulk of the evidence suggested they were a long way short — was useful in fostering an idea whereby Cork could produce a team out of nowhere.