All-star hurler Jackie Tyrrell has been a member of the Kilkenny senior inter-county team since 2003. Tyrrell was the first to start the five in a row dream when he captained Kilkenny to the All-Ireland title in 2006.
The Kilkenny Advertiser spoke to the Glanbia employee ahead of the All-Ireland Final about his drive for five and his disagreement with Croke Park’s rule of not allowing supporters on the pitch.
“Our hunger grows stronger ever year, it grows with the game and there’s always a drive there to succeed,” he said. “Of course we want to win and the five -in-a-row would be the cherry on top. It’s not our main focus but naturally it is part of it.”
However, Tyrrell is well aware they face a tough test from Tipp, “I don’t believe Tipp showed their full potential against Cork. I think they took their eye off the ball with Cork but since then they’ve showed what they are made up of. I’m not surprised they’re through to the final they have improved greatly and they will be tough contenders come September 5. They’ve had plenty of time to improve on their game.”
Speaking of surprises, Tyrrell was shocked with the amount of injuries the Cats endured this season.
“I’m surprised with the amount of injuries this year, and it’s been heartbreaking for those affected— but we’re prepared for that too,” he said. “In 2006 we lost JJ the week before the final and that was devastating but we move on, you have to.”
Manager Brian Cody makes sure the players remain on course.
“We have the best manager in the country and he’s always supporting us but reminding us too of what’s important. He will always remind us it’s not about any one individual it’s about the panel as a whole and that’s the most important thing. We have a very strong panel.”
However, it’s not always plain sailing for the players and Tyrrell knows only to well about this.
“Coming up to the All-Ireland it’s a fight to gain your place. You work really hard and you don’t give up. More importantly you always work as a team player. We all watch each other’s backs and look out for each other and hope we land our place.”
As for that infamous tackle on Tommy Walsh in their league battle with their clubs. Jackie laughs a little as he recalls what happened.
“Well the ball broke up the line, and I just went to grab it. I saw this lad tearing at me and I knew he’d drive me over the line. I grabbed the sliotar, we collided, the ball was cleared and then Tommy unfortunately got injured in the process. The thing is though Tommy Walsh is one tough cookie, you won’t keep him down for long.”
Following this incident many people wondered why clubs were competing so close to the final, but Tyrrell fully supports clubs continuing to play.
“It’s good for us to go back to our clubs between county games” he said. “That keeps us on our toes, keeps the competitive edge going. You have to be fair to your club as well and to make sure fixtures are played in good time as well. We prefer more games, it’s better for us and we enjoy it.”
When asked about the dangers of a pitch invasion after the final whistle Tyrrell feels supporters should be allowed on the pitch — just that they treat it with respect and work with safety measures.
“I don’t agree with the GAA’s decision of putting up a barrier and keeping supporters off the pitch,” he said. “The fact that this barrier could cause more unforeseen damage is a concern. No doubt there will be a few lads trying to get over and they could do damage to themselves.
“I just remember being a young lad when Liam Fennelly lifted the cup and being on the pitch and picking up a piece of grass and putting it into my back pocket. That was a precious moment for me and this should be the same for the young lads of today — they should have their moment as well. Just as long as they keep safety in mind I’m all for them coming on.”
