Proof that gaelic football can still be easy on the eye

In a game devoid of the negativity and cynicism often too prevalent in the senior ranks, these two counties produced a tremendous evening of football skills in difficult weather conditions.

This is how the game can - and should be - played.

Galway’s Ian Burke (0-4), Cathal Mulryan (0-3) and Adrian Varley hit some stunning points, as did Brian Hurley (1-4) and Dan MacEoin (0-4) for John Cleary’s charges. Hurley in particular did not deserve to sit in a losing dressing-room as he more than anyone lead the Rebel revival with two fine points from play and a scintillating goal in the second half. He consistently showed for the ball and his work-rate was top class. His exquisite goal stopped the rot as it looked as if Galway were going to stitch it into Cork after taking a nine point lead at one stage. The watching Conor Counihan must have been impressed with his industry and flair.