The Munster final was all set up to be an absolute thriller, with Cork and Clare heading to Semple Stadium for a place in the All-Ireland semi final.
Clare were looking for only their sixth win in the Munster championship since 2000, Cork were touted as being overhyped by some of the RTE panel before the game, then there was the undertone of Diarmuid O'Sullivan against Donal Óg Cusack on the sidelines. Cork had come out on top in meetings in 2014 and 2015 but the Banner were impressive in their win over Limerick this year.
Cork led at half time but some fans were worried the five point gap wasn't enough with a considerable breeze in Thurles. Both sides hit plenty of bad wides, but there were some magnificent scores in the second half. In the end, that five point gap held.
Much to the delight of the Cork fans - who were full of praise for seemingly every player.
Mark Coleman could smoke a cigar for the remainder of Cork's championship and still win young hurler of the year
— Cork's RedFM Sport (@BigRedBench) July 9, 2017
Mark coleman immense, the last back to make such an impact in his debut season was brian corcoran, class act #CORKvCLARE
— Nigel Brennock (@nigelbrennock) July 9, 2017
Mark Coleman shuffles his feet brilliantly to shackle McGrath. All-Star candidate at 19. As good as any score. #CLAREvCORK #GAA
— Up The Rebels (@up_rebels) July 9, 2017
Unbelievable performance from the Cork hurlers today. To win the Munster Final the way they did is phenomenal. Hopefully go all the way! ?⚪️
— David Meyler (@DavidMeyler7) July 9, 2017
Unreal stuff from Cadogan #MunsterFinal #CORKvCLARE
— gavexile (@gavexile) July 9, 2017
Cadogan on fire 🔥
— Brian Carroll (@BrianCarroll13) July 9, 2017
Damien Cahalane just clocked the fastest 100 metres in the history of Cork.
— Balls.ie (@ballsdotie) July 9, 2017
Brilliant for Cork. That group deserves some credit. Stuck together when they were being abused left, right and center.#uptherebels
— Ronan O Gara (@RonanOGara10) July 9, 2017
What a day for Cork sport. Munster hurling champions in both minors&seniors. Mark Coleman @BlarneyGAA man of the match. Cork City win again
— Trevor Welch (@TrevorWelch_1) July 9, 2017
Clare join Wexford in the All Ireland quarter finals where they will meet Tipperary or Waterford. Cork head straight to an All Ireland semi final.
