Cork players make difficult homecoming decision after crushing All-Ireland loss

Cork were beaten by Tipperary in the All-Ireland final

It was a relatively big ask for players, coaches and fans alike to put on a brave face following the second-half collapse at Croke Park on Sunday, and even the most loyal of Cork's following might be relieved by the decision.

They said on Monday: "At the request of the team and management, there is no event planned for the return of the Cork hurlers this evening. They would again like to thank all the entire county for their unwavering support throughout the year."

Homecomings for defeated All-Ireland finalists are relatively common, with the 2024 defeated hurlers greeted to a homecoming at Páirc Uí Chaoimh last summer.

The match itself was a thriller, with Tipperary fighting back from six points down at half-time to win 3-27 to 1-18, restricting Cork to just two points in the second period. 

One fan said: "Feel for them all today. Totally understand why they did this. Let them find a quiet pub and be with each other away from the maddening crowd . The pain is acute as it is long lasting."

Another said: "Sense prevails. And to anyone slagging off players or management I would like to remind you that its not a very well paid job. Most will be back to work by the end of the week and as for the cost and hardship you went through its only 1% of what all those lads put in."

But another saw the funny side, saying: "The hide n seek champions of Ireland ... this will surely be a world record? Hiding since 4.25pm yesterday."

Meanwhile, Tipperary are gearing up for an historic homecoming in Thurles, with the likes of the 2 Johnnies, Una Healy and Cailin Lua performing.