Progressive year for Tipperary football
With three teams reaching the Munster final it has been a progressive season for Tipperary football, reports County Football Board Secretary, Mr Eddie Lonergan, in his report to the annual convention.
The Cahir man returned unopposed to the position, in a typically detailed report of the years activities, reflects on the great strides being made on the club and Intercounty scene in the overall effort to improve the fortunes of the county.
At senior level Tipperary became a huge talking point in drawing with Cork in the Munster final. It was the County¹s first Munster final appearance since 1998.
The Secretary states - "The final was controversially fixed for Semple Stadium. The team gave a great display and thanks to a last minute point from Niall Kelly forced a replay in a game which many considered the game of the year.
"In the replay Tipp never achieved their true form and were comprehensively beaten. Controversy followed as Cork broke the rules by using twenty one players. However, the Munster Council, contrary to the view from Croke Park, ruled that Cork should keep the game. They then went into the Bank of Ireland All-Ireland qualifiers in which they met Mayo on the following Saturday in Ennis. In this game the team showed great character to come back from the Munster final defeat to give a good display in an excellent match. In the end May emerged as winners by four points."
The Secretary also spoke of the great progress in other grades with the Minors and Juniors reaching Munster finals, and acquitting themselves well.
He also praised the U/21 side for a solid performance against Limerick in the championship, having figured in the Hastings Cup competition.
