Treaty Collapse changes Premier Semifinal direction.
By Noel Dundon
The longest day of the year brought with it a blaze of revelation—casting stark light on the path to the Liam MacCarthy Cup. But while the sun lingered in the sky, championship favourites Limerick were plunged into the shadows, stunned by a Dublin side that lit up Croke Park with sheer grit and audacity, a Treaty torn apart.
Nobody saw this coming. On a golden day that just wouldn’t quit giving, Tipperary rode a wave of success that began early and never let up. First, their ladies footballers pulled off a crucial victory to dodge relegation and surge into the All-Ireland quarter-finals. Next, the camogie stars stepped up, matching that feat with poise and precision. And finally, under the blinding spotlight, the senior hurlers came out swinging—racking up a mighty 1-28 to flatten Galway and book their ticket back to Croker. Waiting for them? None other than their old dance partner, Kilkenny.
But first, to the story that shocked the nation—Dublin’s colossal upset. Built on old-school industry, smart decisions, and a fiery belief, the Dubs defied the odds. Almost everyone beyond their own camp had Limerick marching forward. And when Chris Crummey saw red, even the most hopeful heart thought the game had slipped away. But Niall Ó Ceallacháin’s side tore up the script, turned the tide, and carved their names into modern folklore with a victory that shook the hurling world to its core. Explosive, beautiful, and utterly game-changing—it’s blown the All-Ireland race wide open.
For Tipp, the ripple effect of that result means a reshuffle. Instead of the expected clash with Cork on Saturday, they’ll now lock horns with Leinster champions Kilkenny on the Sunday. A twist of fate, dictated by Dublin’s rebellion.
Most had circled the Tipperary-Galway clash as the marquee match of the weekend—a sure-fire thriller. But while the Gaelic Grounds churned out a drab affair, it was Croke Park that stole the show. As for Tipp, their mission was simple: get past Galway. And though the westerners were well below par, Tipp did what was needed with authority.
There are questions still—yes—but there’s also undeniable momentum. After a six-year absence, Tipp return to Croke Park’s grand stage with the scent of an All-Ireland Final in the air. Their last visit was unforgettable: a decider where they dismantled the Cats with style. Do it again in a fortnight, and they’re back in the big one.
Against Galway, Tipp’s scoring was slick and widespread—1-24 from play, with ten players, including three subs, chipping in. There was flair, but also flashes of vulnerability. Rhys Shelly had the busier goal, pulling off several sharp saves, and desperate defence was required at times too.
But here’s the real gem: every single one of the 26 players named for that game has now tasted championship hurling this season. That’s depth. That’s belief in the bench. Subs aren’t plugging holes—they’re igniting sparks. Now, we have two glorious weeks to sharpen the steel, dream a little, and get ready. The road to glory is glowing again.
Tickety-boo!! Ticket masters are missing a trick
Croke Park is set to be half-empty for both All-Ireland senior hurling semi-finals — and yet, ticket prices remain sky-high. An adult ticket will set you back €60, with students and OAPs paying €55 (Cusack and Davin Stands only). Juveniles? €10 — but only in those same stands. Terrace spots go for €40. So, for a Tipp family of four (two adults, two kids), it’s €140 just to walk through the gates. That’s before a single cent is spent on fuel, parking, food, or a drink. Wouldn’t it make far more sense to lower the prices and pack the place out? A roaring, full stadium beats echoing silence any day.