Cork revel in rankings reversal

This time last year Cork were staring at a toothless exit from the hurling championship.

They had tried to play a sweeper system against Tipperary, a ploy which put the mal in malfunction, as the Premier eased to a nine-point win. A first championship defeat against Wexford in six decades soon followed which was even more depressing for supporters in red. A nadir was officially declared.

The situation was very different in Waterford 12 months ago. As July approached they had a Munster final on the horizon, and though Tipperary beat them heavily in that game, two epic performances against Kilkenny followed in the All-Ireland semi-final and replay.