Joe Canning retirement: Five of his best moments

July 28, 2021

Galway's Joe Canning takes a sideline cut.
©INPHO/Tommy Dickson.

Galway hurling legend Joe Canning has brought the curtain down on his inter-county career.

The Portumna clubman confirmed today that he is retiring after a remarkable career that began as an 18-year-old in 2008 when he made his senior debut for Galway in the National League semi-final against Cork at the Gaelic Grounds.

Now 32, Canning bows out with five All-Star awards to his name, 2017 Hurler of the Year and 2008 Young Hurler of the Year honours, three Leinster SHC medals, two National League medals and an All-Ireland SHC medal that was won in 2017.

Canning played his last game for Galway in Saturday's All-Ireland SHC qualifier defeat to Waterford at Semple Stadium and landed nine points to become the highest scorer in hurling championship with 27-487 (568 points) in 62 championship matches.

Here are five of Canning's best moments in a Galway jersey:

2009 - When he scored 2-12 against Cork in what was only his third championship appearance

2012 - Leaving six Kilkenny defenders in his wake to smash home a goal in the All-Ireland final

2015 - Catch, turn and finish! Easily one of the most incredible goals you will ever see

2017 - A stunning match-winning point from the sideline in the 74th minute to dethrone Tipperary and edge Galway into the All-Ireland final

2020 - Another one for the record books as he strikes four sideline cuts in a single championship game


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