By Cian O'Connell

Padraic Maher is relishing the chance to face neighbours Kilkenny in another All-Ireland Final.

Tipperary and Kilkenny have contested deciders in 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2014. "Yeah, it has the makings of a cracking final," Maher admits. "You'd imagine both teams are full steam ahead after the two semi-finals. Look, we'll get our recovery and back in Tuesday night on the field, and we'll see where it leaves us." 

Tipp shaded a bruising battle against Galway at Croke Park last Sunday. "Yeah, we probably lost a few tight games and it's great to come out on the right side of it," Maher reflected. 

"Look, the Championship is really after hotting up in the last two or three weeks so we're absolutely delighted to make that step to the final." 

Maher isn't concerned about Tipperary's recent record against Kilkenny. "Ah, no," Maher responds. "We don't ever fear Kilkenny; we never did. Look, we came up against them when they were a top-class team.

"And people were doubting them the last few years and they just keep coming and coming. You saw Saturday night again, bringing in new lads and they’re delivering the goods again. 

"Look, we're under no illusions. We’ve a load of new young lads in there too, and they’re mad for action too. And that will bring them on a huge amount again. Look, we'll give it our best shot and if it's good enough it's good enough."

Thurles Sarsfields star Maher hailed John 'Bubbles' O'Dwyer's goalscoring impact. "It was great, and we knew having him coming on was a great asset too. He showed what he's good at. He was hungry; he was very disappointed not to get back in. He's after putting his hand up for the next day anyway."