Waterford's Austin Gleeson was a slightly controversial choice for Hurler of the Year in 2016. Sure he had an amazing season, but was his final product always what it should be? Not always is the answer, but the things he can do with a hurley and a sliotar stand out so much from the opposition that it was impossible to ignore his claim to be the best hurler in the country last year. His unique moments of skill and inspiration were often awe inspirting,
Well, 11 minutes into his nod in the 2017 Championship, he had already perhaps surpassed anything he did last year. An outrageous pick up in the tight confines of the centre of the pitch, packed with Cork defenders, followed by an easy tap over the bar. Not a bother to Aussie. Nobody makes hurling look easier.
Stunning skill from Austin Gleeson for a sensational point. Join us live on @Rteone or highlights later on @TheSundayGame at 9.3pm on @rte2 pic.twitter.com/EFHxNfliE5
— The Sunday Game (@TheSundayGame) June 18, 2017
Unreal stuff. The way he picks the ball up, gets off the ground and puts the ball over the bar is so swift, it's almost like it's all in one motion.
The things Austin Gleeson can do with a hurley and sliotar.
It's a cracking game in Thurles so far, with both Cork and Waterford flying in the hot Thurles sun. It has the potential to be one of the great games, but it will be tough to top that moment.
