The long wait ends for Limerick who are All Ireland Hurling Champions.
In pouring rain at Croke Park Limerick won the Liam McCarthy Cup for the first time since 1940. Perhaps the weather kept many away as the attendance of 58,009 was the lowest for an All Ireland Hurling Final in twenty five years. The rain could not dampen the joyous scenes as Limerick supporters and players celebrated at the final whistle.
Limerick made the better start but when Pat Delaney scored a goal for Kilkenny after twenty minutes it put the Cats ahead by a point 1-03 to 0-05. Limerick regathered and pressure on the Kilkenny defence resulted in frees which Richie Bennis converted. By half-time, Limerick had the lead back again 0-12 to 1-07.
Within five minutes of the restart, the sides were level again. Then Frank Cummins went on a run sending a ball into Mick Crotty who looked like he must score a goal but Limerick goalkeeper Seamus Horgan made a remarkable save to deflect it over the bar. Kilkenny lead by one point 1-10 to 0-12. Shortly afterwards another Richie Bennis free levelled the game again.
Limerick attacked again and when Noel Skehan could only partially block a shot from Moss Dowling, the ball was bundled into the net after a goalmouth scramble. Bernie Hartigan added another point. Suddenly Limerick were four ahead 1-14 to 1-10. Although Kilkenny managed to close the gap to two points, Limerick were always able to keep their opponents at bay to secure victory.
In remarkable scenes of celebration, joyous Limerick supporters invaded the pitch. Captain Éamonn Grimes accepted the Liam McCarthy Cup as Limerick were crowned All Ireland Champions for the first time in thirty three years.
The final score was Limerick 1-21 Kilkenny 1-14.
The All Ireland Hurling Final was broadcast live on 2 September 1973. The commentator is Michael O'Hehir.
