Henry Shefflin was delighted to see his Ballyhale Shamrocks side honour the memory of Eugene Aylward and Brendan Fennelly by retaining their All-Ireland club SHC crown yesterday.

Panellist Aylward lost his life in a road accident last October, while Fennelly, who was a member of Ballyhale and Kilkenny's most famous hurling family died last summer at the age of 63.

"I think the two lads were shining down on us," the Ballyhale manager said.

“I think as joyous as an occasion as it is today it’s a very sad day as well. There’s no doubt about it, to do back-to-back you have to have serious desire and want. I think Eugene’s Aylward passing last year has given them that want and desire. 

“They wanted to do something special and have that jersey with them. We had a photo inside last year of Eoin’s (Doyle) jersey. As some of ye might be aware, Eugene’s jersey, number 19, wasn’t seen all year, but it was inside with them in the dressing-room. 

“We got a picture with that jersey and the cup and I think that’s a great reflection of what the lads wanted to achieve today."

Shefflin added: “I know there is a lot of negativity in the press at the moment about the GAA and calendars and everything like this, but I must recognise today the Doyle and Aylward family and the Cullen family – Eoin Doyle and Eugene’s family were offered tickets by the GAA, a box, and they are all up there together.

“I’m sure very emotional and sad that their two boys are not there – but I think it was a great token by the GAA. That’s what makes it special."

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