Cats spoilt for choice

Kilkenny 0-20

Ultimately they were dominant over Galway in almost every sector in what had earlier been a close encounter.

At midfield, last year's captain Andy Comerford, a flu victim, will surely have noted the performance of newcomer Tommy Walsh with interest. In a man-of-the-match performance, the Tullaroan youngster thrilled the large attendance, capping a skilful display with four points from the centre of the park, off left and right.