Eamon O'Shea highlighted Tipperary's "fantastic spirit" following their league semi-final defeat of All-Ireland champions Clare.

The Premier County have received more than their fair share of criticism during the course of this year's league but they are through to the final (against Kilkenny on May 4th) after easily seeing off the Banner County in the Gaelic Grounds today:

"We knew we were improving over the weeks and our hurling was a bit better," O'Shea commented after the final whistle. "In the first half, we were trying to contain them a little bit and we had the wind, so we got up a lead, but at the same time I think we started to hurl in the second half there when the pressure came on.

"It's one thing about the league campaign - it taught us how to deal with pressure.

"I think one of the things about the league - even though we were getting hammered by all quarters - we never gave up in any games that we lost, even the games we lost by a lot.

"The spirit was outstanding and I think what you saw today was an outstanding spirit and I'm really happy.

"I don't think either team are probably at their best and hopefully that's to come from us - a bit better - but we're happy to get the win today." Tweet

Most Read Stories