Joe Canning's reinvention as a kind of hurling regista - the Portumna Pirlo - is an undeniably great thing, and all but Galway's next opponents should give thanks to Michael Donoghue for giving Canning an expanse in which he can express his genius.
Canning was largely majestic in Tullamore today, largely loading the chamber for others to fire, along with scoring 0-9, four of which were from play.
He also assisted the second goal, and the reason he did not set up at least another one is down to poor finishing. Canning produced one of the moments of the year in the final stages of the first half, floating a laser-guided pass into Jason Flynn in front of goal. He should have finished, but instead it kissed the top of the crossbar and Galway had to settle for one point, rather than three.
Here it is in frame-by-frame form:
Canning dispossesses poor Shane Barrett...
...looks up...
...and brilliantly picks out Flynn, with a pass that Brendan Cummins described as "taking out the goalkeeper":
Canning had a pretty extensive highlight reel, and Eir Sport have cut it together:
WATCH!
It was a Joe-show in O'Connor Park as Joe Canning inspired @Galway_GAA to a comfortable 2-28 to 1-17 win over @DubGAAOfficial today! pic.twitter.com/pqGBscc846— eirSport (@eirSport) May 28, 2017
Canning didn't give a MOTM interview to The Sunday Game as he was mobbed by fans after the game, meaning he didn't do a media interview in order to take selfies with fans. Presumably, Bernard Flynn has self-combusted while trying to work out about how to feel about this.
There mustn't be a child in Galway without a Joe Canning autograph at this stage
— Robert Purfield (@robertpurfield) May 28, 2017
There's no doubt that Hurling is the most skilful game in the world
Joe Canning showcases a masterclass in the sport👌#galvdub #GAA— Caz (@Cazdoestweets) May 28, 2017
Game is rubbish but how effortless does Joe Canning make hurling look. Ridiculously skilful!!
— Alan Cawley (@alancaw) May 28, 2017
Lovely touch from Joe Canning, giving away his stick & helmet. #DUBvsGAL
— Mick (@Cornerboyle76) May 28, 2017
Galway and Canning progress to a Leinster semi-final with Offaly on Sunday, June 18th.
