Kilkenny’s greater goal-scoring ability will win the day

THE last time we saw Kilkenny they were hammering Dublin and announcing to everyone they were back.

And Kilkenny did look to be the machine of old, the team that steam rolled opposition on the way to a magnificent four-in-a-row of All-Ireland titles.

David Herity has developed into one of the finest keepers in the game. Noel Hickey has got a new lease of life and the flying Paul Murphy slotted seamlessly alongside him. Jackie Tyrrell was back to his tyrannical best. Tommy Walsh was supreme. Midfield was dominated by the rampaging Michael Fennelly and the supporting Michael Rice.