So, you're telling me there's a chance
By Shane Brophy
The headline to the right is a quote from one of the most famous lines from the film, Dumb & Dumber, and it would have come to mind for many Tipperary supporters when they learned that they can still qualify for the All-Ireland Series, despite losing their first three games.
Now, it’s the slimmest of chances as not only do Tipperary have to beat Cork at FBD Semple Stadium on Sunday, they have to win big and then hope Waterford suffer a similar defeat to Clare in the corresponding fixture in Ennis.
The bare facts are that for Tipperary to have any chance of qualifying, they need to beat Cork, and do so by a seven-point margin. That initial target would put Tipperary ahead of Cork on score difference.
After that, they would have to bridge a fourteen-point difference to Waterford, which would mean if Tipperary won by seven points, Waterford would have to lose to Clare by at least eight points, as if the sides were level on score difference, Waterford have a considerable advantage at the moment having scored more in the three games so far than Tipperary.
However, Tipperary’s hopes of Waterford not getting a result will likely be hit by the fact that with Clare already through to a Munster Final against a Limerick side who are on the bye this Sunday, Brian Lohan will be expected to rest some key players which will aid Liam Cahill’s charges aim of getting the win they need to have a chance of staying in the championship.
Regardless of whether Tipperary can achieve a miracle, that the game isn’t a complete dead-rubber is should ensure a big crowd at FBD Semple Stadium, with the match throwing at 4.00pm, the curtain-raiser for which is the All-Ireland Under 20 Hurling Final between Limerick and Kilkenny at 1.30pm.
Realistically, it is hard to see anything other than Tipperary’s season coming to an end on Sunday evening but having something at stake ensures there will be a keen edge to the game and give the players, mentors and supporters a chance to end what has been a difficult season on a high, and put another building block in place for an upturn in fortunes in 2023.