Maurice Brosnan: Beware of The Cats in the long grass

Clare are marginally favourites for Sunday’s clash. The heartbreak of another provincial final defeat has likely only stoked their motivated fire. Meanwhile, much has changed in Kilkenny, but their hunger remains.

CONFIDENCE: TJ Reid of Kilkenny celebrates a point during the Leinster GAA Hurling Senior Championship Final match between Kilkenny and Galway. Pic: Harry Murphy/Sportsfile

Did you really expect any different? TJ Reid certainly didn’t. With ten points banked and a knowing smile, he spelt out precisely why Kilkenny came to Croke Park with optimism before their comfortable 2022 semi-final victory over Clare.

“You have to be confident. You have to believe in your team and we did,” Reid said post-match.