Winning games is a good habit - Tipp captain Maher

By Stephen Barry

Win on Sunday and Ronan Maher would become the first Tipperary captain to lift National Hurling League silverware since Eoin Kelly and Paul Ormond did so jointly in 2008.

A generation of Premier hurlers have retired without that medal so Maher is perfectly aware of the opportunity in Cork. Equally, he knows the broader picture of preparing for Limerick a fortnight later and their key goal of escaping the Munster Championship.

“It's a great position to be in,” said Maher, speaking at the launch of the Munster Championships in Kerry last week.

“League finals have proved very difficult to win in Tipperary, 2008 being the last one. We've been beaten in a few so it's a medal we'd all love to have.”

Coming off a tough year in 2024, consistent performances were the main League objective. Delivering five victories out of six proved just the tonic.

“Winning games is a big boost. That can change the atmosphere,” Maher added.

“That's the big positive to take out of the League, that we've been winning games and put ourselves in a really good position in a League final now.

“Like that, we'll go out against Cork, it'll be a big challenge again, but we'll just look to improve as a team.

“It'll be a great experience for a lot of the younger lads going out in a League final. It's all preparation for Championship, we'll take it game by game, and do our best in the League final.”

Maher anchors a settled Tipperary defence and that familiarity breeds confidence.

“The spine of the team has been consistent throughout the League. It was something that really frustrated us last year, starting off in the League and carrying on into the Championship.

“There was good consistency in the League this year and that gives you clarity. On the other side, there's great competition in all positions.

“But it definitely does give you a good confidence boost going out onto the field knowing you're comfortable playing with the players alongside you.”