Murphy: It was like an All-Ireland final

Agony to ecstasy was a journey Paul Murphy took in 13 short days but Kilkenny’s bionic defender wasn’t going to risk himself for any old game.

The 2012 Hurler of the Year nominee was in distress following an ankle injury in the drawn Leinster semi-final against Dublin last month. He had to be stretchered off the field in Portlaoise and missed the subsequent replay but last Monday reported himself “200% ready” to Brian Cody to face Tipperary.

Murphy gave an awesome display in the right corner as much as his battle with Lar Corbett was shaping up to be one for the ages before the Tipp man’s hamstring pinged on him.