Tipperary minors defeat Kilkenny to secure All-Ireland title

There was no obstacle too large for the Tipperary minors who overcame Kilkenny 2-17 to 3-12 after extra time with a gutsy display in the All-Ireland final.

Three sucker-punch goals, two red cards and a home Nowlan Park crowd were among the difficulties faced by James Woodlock's side but they refused to be denied.

Billy O’Brien’s goal deep into extra-time eventually sealed a famous and deserved victory for the Premier County, much to the delight of their travelling support.

Chants of Tipp Tipp Tipp rang around Kilkenny then as their victorious captain Cathal O’Reilly accepted the Irish Press Cup for the 22nd time in their history.

What made it all the sweeter for them is that the victory moved them one clear of Kilkenny on the roll of honour.

O’Brien was Tipperary’s match-winner but they had heroes all over with Euan Murray, the captain O’Reilly and Adam Ryan all outstanding.

As for Kilkenny, they will rue a string of wides in the second half in particular but they too played their part in an encounter that was at all times enthralling.

GAA president Jarlath Burns mentioned in his presentation speech that the late Mícheal Ó Muircheartaigh would have been proud watching down and there was no doubt about that.

Cillian Minogue got Tipperary off the mark with a well-taken point but his evening ended soon after.

Referee Thomas Gleeson showed him a straight red card on eight minutes for what was deemed a striking offence on Kilkenny corner back Bobby Brennan.

The decision was met with a chorus of boos from the Tipp support as well as some protestations from their management but the fourteen remaining rolled up the sleeves.

Points from Adam Ryan and Eoghan Doughan gave them early momentum before they were rocked on their heels by a goal