Cody thrilled with spirit and workrate of players he trusts completely

The Kilkenny manager was particularly pleased with his side's first half effort

Kilkenny manager Brian Cody shakes hands with Tommy Walsh of Kilkenny after their side's victory in the GAA Hurling All-Ireland Senior Championship Semi-Final match between Kilkenny and Clare at Croke Park in Dublin. Photo by Harry Murphy/Sportsfile

Kilkenny boss Brian Cody paid tribute to his side’s spirit - the panel’s spirit, which is what he always seeks to build.

“Up to the Leinster final we were playing more or less every week, which gives limited time - no time, really - for training.