Martin Breheny

Three years ago this week, Kildare hurlers lost to Down by eight points in the final round of the Joe McDonagh Cup in Newbridge.

Three years ago this week, Kildare hurlers lost to Down by eight points in the final round of the Joe McDonagh Cup in Newbridge.

Let’s salute them, one and all – John Heslin, Pádraig Harrington, Martin O’Neill and Jose Mourinho, a quartet who have demonstrated over recent days that experience is indeed a priceless asset that will always stand the test of time.

First, the voices of bewildered hurling managers, then the facts. They are quite a combination, providing convincing evidence that the inter-county

Dublin were petty but are entitled to feel aggrieved

Dublin were petty but are entitled to feel aggrieved

Looking over the fence for help is an odd move for such a successful county and can be seen as an act of weakness

What total score will the winners of the All-Ireland hurling final rack up? We won’t know until after 5pm on Sunday, but if recent trends are an indication it will be at least 30 points.