Galway successfully defended their Leinster title thanks to a 1-28 to 3-15 victory over Kilkenny at Semple Stadium.
The Cats threatened a second half fightback when they came within a point of the Tribesmen in the 55th minute after Richie Hogan found the net.
But Kilkenny failed to build on that momentum as Galway sent over six points in the final 10 minutes.
"These boys have massive experience and they draw on it whether good or bad. They showed a huge desire to go and win the game."
Galway boss Micheal Donoghue hailed his players after beating Kilkenny in their #LeinsterFinal replay. @BoyleSports pic.twitter.com/iwOZtHr2g7
— Off The Ball (@offtheball) July 8, 2018
Cathal Mannion hit 0-6 from play for the victors as he was awarded the man of the match award.
Galway's Cathal Mannion was voted man of the match after the Tribesmen were crowned Leinster champions thanks to their win over Kilkenny.@ScrewfixIreland pic.twitter.com/a6HMUidtBO
— Off The Ball (@offtheball) July 8, 2018
Brian Cody refused to be downbeat despite seeing his side lose out to Galway.
"We didn't perform in the first half and it was a question of the players saying: 'we're not going to just walk away and be blown away.'"
Kilkenny boss Brian Cody backed his players for showing fighting spirit in their Leinster final loss to Galway. @BoyleSports pic.twitter.com/0wSkkDeEMK
— Off The Ball (@offtheball) July 8, 2018
Former Kilkenny hurler Tommy Walsh shared his thoughts on the Cats' display ahead of their clash with Limerick next weekend.
What next for Kilkenny? - Can they regroup in time for Limerick next weekend?@BoyleSports pic.twitter.com/4VnXRlYtt9
— Off The Ball (@offtheball) July 8, 2018
