Kilkenny had the goalden touch, says delighted Hickey

NO-ONE epitomises the steely determination and the array of skills that go into the make up of a good Kilkenny hurler more than Dunamaggin’s Noel Hickey.

Less than a year ago it looked as though his career in the black and amber jersey had come to a premature end — struck down by a viral heart infection, he was ordered away from hurling by his medical advisers, with no guarantees about a return.

Yesterday Hickey was back doing what he does best: defending stoutly in Kilkenny’s 13th National League title win, the county’s second in successive years. Hickey was never in any doubt that he would play again.