Although John Leahy made his first appearance for Tipperary since Christmas, it was not enough to help Tipperary to victory as they lost by two points to Limerick in the Hennessy Cup Senior Hurling final at Emly last evening.

Leahy is facing Court proceedings in England and he came into the Tipperary team when Michael Celery cried off with Flu. He was given a rousing reception by the large home following, and scored a point before retiring after 40 minutes.

In a lively encounter, Tipperary made the early running and with goals by Brendan Carey in the 10th and 12th minutes, led 2-6 to 1-7 at the interval. Shane O'Neill got Limerick's goal in the 18th.

Limerick were the better side in the second half. Pat Coleman put them ahead for the first time with a goal in the eighth minute and they never subsequently looked back.