Banner rises as last post sounds for Tipperary

At the finish, Michael Ryan and his three selectors stayed on the sideline where they had stood all day, heads bowed, surveying the death of a season.

Well-wishers filed by to offer condolence. Respectful handshakes. A hug. Not quite house private. Youngsters offered hurleys and they were signed, but it seemed a bit much.

Long ago, Donal Moloney and Gerry O’Connor had embraced before melting into the throng of Banner jubilation. Wrapped in the warmth of their people and a certain kind of deliverance.