Unbelievable feeling to see fans on pitch, claims Kavanagh

KILKENNY defender Michael Kavanagh admits he is in favour of the traditional Liam MacCarthy Cup victory presentation in the Hogan Stand and empathises with fans wishing to come on the pitch.

Plans to present the trophy in the middle of the Croke Park pitch after Sunday’s All-Ireland decider were aborted after Kilkenny fans broke past stewards on Hill 16 and Kavanagh yesterday described it as ‘an unbelievable feeling’ looking down on the support from the Hogan Stand when the cup was presented to Michael Fennelly.

“It’s hard for fans to stay off the pitch, particularly if they’re on Hill 16 or the Canal End which is a long way from the presentation area. The real supporters like to get out among their own and celebrate and there was great euphoria there. I know health and safety’s an issue for Croke Park but you could see what it meant to Kilkenny people who took over the field and it’s a great view when you’re up there looking down. It’s an unbelievable feeling looking out on your crowd. You get a great view when you walk up the steps of the Hogan Stand.”

Sunday’s victory capped a fantastic week for Kavanagh as he collected his seventh senior medal with Kilkenny and his wife Hazel gave birth to their first child, Charlie, on Tuesday.

“It was an emotional rollercoaster of a week to be involved in but I’m delighted everything worked out on both accounts. It’s going to be hard to beat that week and I’m just delighted everything worked out on both counts. The baby was due September 19 so he was two and a half weeks early! It was a bit of a rush on Tuesday but in a way it kind of took the mind off the game. I’m grateful to all the midwives in the maternity section in St Luke’s Hospital, we appreciate everything they’ve done for us.

“It’s a great feeling as well to wake up the morning after an All-Ireland and we’re certainly looking forward to getting back among our own and there should be a great few days ahead and a good winter. These days are special and any day you beat Tipp in a final has to be celebrated.”

Kavanagh also paid tribute to defender Noel Hickey who missed out on Sunday’s final after a season that has been ravaged with injury.

“Myself and Noel have played together since 2000 and yesterday was his first year to miss out. He’s after putting down a year of horrendous injuries and we’re delighted to give Noel the chance to come back again next year and fight for his place for maybe the five in-a-row. Noel is a born leader in the panel, he was disappointed not to start but was encouraging to the rest of the lads.”