What Is 2007 All Ireland Hurling Final

Overview

The 2007 All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship final was a landmark event in Gaelic games, held on September 2, 2007, at Croke Park in Dublin. Kilkenny faced Limerick in a highly anticipated showdown, marking Limerick’s first final appearance since 1996 and Kilkenny’s continued dominance in the sport.

This final was notable for Kilkenny’s tactical precision and physical intensity, which overwhelmed a determined Limerick side. The victory extended Kilkenny’s legacy as one of hurling’s most successful counties and marked their third title in four years under manager Brian Cody.

• Kilkenny won 2-20 to 0-19, securing a 7-point victory over Limerick in front of 82,156 spectators at Croke Park.
• The match was officiated by Anthony Daly from Clare, a former inter-county hurler known for his calm management of high-pressure games.
• Eddie Brennan scored 1-2, including a crucial goal in the second half that helped break open the game.
• Kilkenny captain Henry Shefflin lifted the Liam MacCarthy Cup after scoring 0-9 from frees and placed balls.
• This was Kilkenny’s 31st All-Ireland title, extending their record as the most successful team in championship history.

Key Moments and Performances

The 2007 final was defined by pivotal plays and standout individual performances that shaped the outcome. Kilkenny’s ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities contrasted with Limerick’s missed chances, especially in the second half.

• First-half score: 0-11 to 0-9 in favor of Kilkenny, showing a tight contest before the decisive second-half surge.
• Michael Fennelly controlled midfield and won key possession, contributing significantly to Kilkenny’s rhythm.
• Limerick’s Joe O’Connor scored 0-7, their top performer, but lacked support from other forwards.
• Kilkenny’s second goal came in the 58th minute from substitute Martin Comerford, sealing the result.
• Defensive solidity from Brian Hogan in goal and the Kilkenny full-back line limited Limerick’s scoring despite their efforts.

Comparison at a Glance

Here’s how Kilkenny and Limerick compared in key statistical categories during the 2007 final:

The table highlights Kilkenny’s superior scoring efficiency and ability to convert chances into goals. Limerick, despite a spirited effort and strong individual performances, struggled to match Kilkenny’s consistency over the full 70 minutes. Their failure to score a goal proved decisive in a match where momentum shifted quickly after halftime.

Why It Matters

The 2007 final had lasting implications for both teams and the broader landscape of hurling. It reinforced Kilkenny’s status as a powerhouse while underscoring the challenges facing counties like Limerick in breaking long title droughts.

• Kilkenny’s win marked the beginning of a four-in-a-row championship run from 2006 to 2009, a historic achievement.
• Limerick’s appearance signaled a resurgence, leading to future investments in coaching and youth development.
• The match was broadcast live on RTE to over 1 million viewers, highlighting hurling’s national appeal.
• It showcased the importance of substitute impact, with Comerford and others altering the game’s momentum.
• The result emphasized set-piece accuracy, with Shefflin’s 9 frees underlining Kilkenny’s discipline.
• It remains a reference point in discussions about modern hurling tactics and fitness standards.

The 2007 All-Ireland Hurling Final was more than just a championship decider—it was a testament to Kilkenny’s sustained excellence and a turning point in Limerick’s long journey back to prominence, culminating in their eventual 2018 title win.