Classic clash — rivals ready for historic final

THE thunder and lightning final. The Ring goal final. The ‘Pilltown’ final in ’66. The Cats’ comeback in 1972. The ’78 three-in-a-row decider. DJ Carey’s penalty in 1992. Setanta.

When Cork and Kilkenny meet in the decider, there’s usually something to mark the occasion.

Tomorrow, it’s the old firm again. The stakes are a touch higher than normal, given Cork’s pursuit of a three-in-a-row and Kilkenny’s determination to stop them.