Newport: More than a team — this is a family

Newport’s long wait for another Tipp intermediate title and a return to senior ranks was ended by loyalty and community, writes Larry Ryan

A year starts like any other. Hurling set to dictate its rhythms.

Two friends take stock. Veterans now. The full-back and the centre-back. The staunch clubman and the star countyman. Both made plans. But life took over and ripped one set up.