Tipperary hurling lost another legend yesterday evening with the passing of Liam Devaney after a short illness at the age of 82.

The Borris-Ileigh club-man was one of the most talented and versatile hurlers the Premier County ever produced, and had the distinction of playing in very position for the Tipperary senior team except full-back.

That versatility proved particularly vital in the 1961 All-Ireland Final against Dublin when he was moved into centre-back after Tony Wall was injured and hurled up a storm.

The Irish Independent said of his performance afterwards: ‘’His all-round hurling ability and dauntless spirit were more evident than ever on Sunday and his coolness, ball control and ability to evade the tackle at centre back, to deliver match winning clearances were a revelation’’. 

Partly on the strength of that performance he was crowned Caltex Hurler for 1961, just one of many honours he claimed over the course of a stellar career that saw him play on five Liam MacCarthy Cup winning Tipperary teams. 

Tipperary County Board Chairman Michael Bourke yesterday paid tribute to the late Liam Devaney on hearing of his passing.

He said: "During a golden era for Tipperary hurling, Liam Devaney was a key contributor to the county's fortunes. Not alone was he fearless and charismatic but he also possessed a tremendous hurling brain which epitomised his determination to deliver success for Tipperary.

“I have known Liam for many years and such was his presence that his jovial nature and character would ensure he would take centre stage in any company. Tipperary has lost a great son, friend and acquaintance.

“On behalf of Tipperary County Board I extend our heartfelt condolences to the Devaney family and also to his club, Borris-Ileigh, on the sad passing of Liam."

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam

Liam Devaney’s Major Honours list

All Ireland Senior Hurling (5) – 1958, 1961, 1962, 1964 & 1965

Munster Senior Hurling (8) – 1958, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1967 & 1968

Caltex Hurler of the Year (1) - 1961

National Hurling League titles (8) 1954/55, 1956/57, 1958/59, 1959/60, 1960/61, 1963/64, 1964/65 & 1967/68

Oireachtas Cup (6) – 1960, 1961, 1963, 1964, 1965 & 1968

Railway Cup with Munster (3) - 1961, 1963 & 1966

All Ireland Minor Hurling (2) -1952 & 1953

Munster Minor Hurling (2) -1952 & 1953

Co. Senior Hurling (1) -1953

North Tipp Senior Hurling (4) – 1953, 1955, 1972 & 1973

Knocknagow Award -2015

Cu Chulainn Award Winner - 1963 (right corner forward).