Anthony Cunningham’s total faith in Galway's talent

Anthony Cunningham’s deep-rooted belief that there is an All-Ireland hurling title in this Galway team motivated his decision to seek a fourth year at the helm.

Their qualifier defeat to Tipperary last July brought the curtain down on Cunningham’s three-year term and the two-time All-Ireland medal-winner was informed by the county board executive that he would have to re-interview for the position of manager if he wished to stay on.

Challenged by Mattie Kenny, who served as his selector in 2012, the six-man selection committee was split down the centre. Chairman Noel Treacy was asked for his casting vote; Cunningham hanging on by the thread of his bainisteoir’s shirt.