Finally, I think I’m starting to get over my Thurles phobia

My first visit to Semple Stadium was a depressing one that has probably shaped me into the cynic that I am.

The drawn Munster hurling final in 1987 was an eye-opener. I couldn’t believe a seven-year-old would be allowed past those turnstiles into those dark, crowded passageways.

I couldn’t fathom how Cork could do anything but win, having developed some appreciation of the greatness of Cork during the previous successful campaign in 1986, the year that brought the new 20p coin and Jim Cashman out into the national spotlight.