Cats undone by a shock to the system

Galway came to Croke Park on Sunday with a game plan and took the final to Kilkenny from the throw-in.

Their strategy revolved around dominating midfield, where corner forward Damien Hayes had a free role, assisted by Cyril Donnellan and Niall Bourke.

Hayes was particularly effective, full of energy, picking up breaks and making himself available for short passes from defence as Galway insured that they retained possession.