Enda McEvoy: Numerous factors pushing hurling's scoring upsurge

Know how many points the bookies – or, more exactly, the bookies’ algorithms - reckon will be scored in Sunday's All-Ireland final? Around 57, and these people have a habit of being right about such matters

Barry Nash of Limerick shoots under pressure from Eoghan Connolly of Tipperary. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

ON September 1st 1996, Tom Dempsey took up his position at top of the right and blocked out the rest of the world. The 65,847 spectators, the throngs on Hill 16 looming over him, even what was happening down the other end of the field. All non-existent.

Nothing mattered except himself and Declan Nash, the Limerick corner-back. Single, semi-armed combat. That was life as a forward back then. “It was all about accountability. You and your marker. Declan Nash, Martin Hanamy, Willie O’Connor or whoever. Would you get a point or two off him? Maybe three points? Or would he keep you scoreless?”