Seamus Callanan believes yesterday's Allianz Hurling League final will stand Tipperary in good stead for the rest of the year.

The full forward was in upbeat mood, despite the disappointment of a 1-27 to 2-25 extra-time defeat to old rivals Kilkenny, insisting that the final was ideal preparation for their Munster SHC showdown with Limerick in four weeks' time.

"It's tough to lose a final, but it was as much about getting a performance from the team and having players challenge at the top level. For us the whole league was about preparing right for the Limerick game," he told RTE.

"When Tipp and Kilkenny play it's always going to be a tough battle and there was a championship intensity out there today.

"The game will definitely stand to us. We've had our ups and downs in the league but the focus now is on Limerick." Tweet

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