I can has Liam McCarthy

You have to respect the Kilkenny Cats, who picked up their fourth Liam McCarthy in a row. I was so glad this SHF was so much better and competitive than last year, but I was gutted for Tipp’, who were leading for so long and almost had the cats in the bag. A foolish lash of the ash, and a very dubious penalty meant it wasn’t to be. I’ve enjoyed watching Kilkenny play, but it’s time for a bit more competition. I head Brian Cody lose the rag this evening when asked his opinion on the penalty decision, on Newstalk. Disappointing, coming from the best hurling manager in historym, but maybe that’s what it takes to win?

On to the football and I just watched the last twenty of the most boring football match I can remember – Ireland v SA at a half filled Thomond Park. No more to say about that – at least in Cyprus the result compensated for a poor match. Meanwhile north of the border, Norn’ Iron were so unlucky not to walk away from Poland with three points, which would have put them in a great position. They would have had to defend for most of the second half to secure a win, and a momentary lapse let Poland in for the equaliser. They have another go tomorrow v Slovakia, but it’s a big ask.

I’ve left the rugby to last, as I can’t quite get my head around all four Irish provinces losing on the opening weekend of the Magner’s league. Munster and Leinster might be pacing themselves for tough Heineken Cup weekends in the New Year, but I can’t understand how Ulster and Connaught didn’t put up a better opening fight, especially after some good pre-season results for Ulster. Ahh, could be a longer season towards the bottom of the Magners.

Lastly, Australia kept the Tri-Nations open (for a little bit) with a win over SA that gives the All Blacks a chance. Looking forward to see if the All Blacks can lift their game from the first few disappointing run outs.