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.”