On a wet and windy day in Croke Park 12th September 1999, Cork emerged victorious in the All Ireland Hurling Final against Kilkenny. Mark Landers got the game's opening score in the 7th minute. Timmy McCarthy followed up with one shortly afterwards and another in the 17th minute. Kilkenny then scored two minutes later with a Henry Shefflin free. D.J. Carey who played in a number of positions was restricted by the Cork defence with Brian Corcoran in top form. The half time score was Kilkenny 0-5, Cork 0-4.

In the opening minute of the second half substitute Alan Browne scored a good point, after Ben O'Connor worked hard to make the opening. Kilkenny's forwards were now looking more promising and scores came from Charlie Carter, Shefflin and Byrne. Kilkenny were now four points ahead. Cork showing their character bounced back. Kevin Murray contributed an important point and scores from Deane, McCarthy, McGrath equalised the match. Ben O'Connor then struck the leading score, after great work by Deane and McCarthy. A Deane free in the 66th minute was followed by a Shefflin point. Nevertheless, under pressure Cork survived and lifted the Liam McCarthy cup for the 28th time.

55,000 fans jammed Cork city on Monday night, 13th September, to welcome home the hurlers of the Cork team who will never be forgotten. An estimated 4000 people converged on Mallow station to give a rousing welcome to the three North Cork players on the team: Newtownshandrum's Ben O'Connor, Fergal McCormack(Mallow) and Neil Ronan(Ballyhea).

1999 All Ireland Hurling Champions

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