Declan Ryan is hoping Tipperary's Waterford Crystal Cup final victory over Clare will "kick-start" their season.

The Premier County put the disappointment of their Allianz Hurling League first round defeat to Kilkenny behind them with an impressive 1-21 to 2-12 win in Sixmilebridge. The Tipp manager said afterwards: "It was a good workout for us. After the game against Kilkenny the last day we were looking for a good performance, and it was a tough battle today.

"In the second half, there was a strong breeze and the Clare boys were coming hard. But our boys, in fairness, they stuck it out well. John O'Brien has had a lot of games since the start of the year, but it was good to see him coming off the bench.

"We're delighted with the win particularly after last weekend - with the rest of the league hopefully that's a kick-start for us." Tweet

Most Read Stories