While this afternoon's meeting between Kilkenny and Galway became an instant classic due to the dramatic finish in the game, it's fair to say that supporters will come away from the game with mixed emotions about the atmosphere on display.
That should never be the case after a game such as that one, although it actually had little to do with the action on the pitch.
A crowd of around 24,000 people was in attendance at the game, a decent number on the surface. However, it felt entirely entirely underwhelming in Croke Park, with that number being just over 25 per cent of the capacity of the ground.
For quite a few years now, people have been calling for less games to be played at GAA headquarters. The vast majority of contest held at Jones' Road come nowhere near to filling the stadium, something that has resulted in flat occasions at what otherwise could have been very exciting affairs.
It certainly pales in comparison to the Munster championship, which continues to thrive on the back of packed grounds throughout the competition. Indeed, many of the Leinster round robin games this year had a better atmosphere than what was on display today.
Joe Canning calls for Leinster final change after Galway vs Kilkenny
When looking at the two games that took place today, the atmospheres could hardly have contrasted more despite the close nature of both contests.
At the Gaelic Grounds, a capacity crowd added to what was a pulsating clash between Limerick and Clare. In contrast, the empty seats in Croke Park sucked the life out of what should have been another tense affair.
That second game would have been better served being moved to another venue, one that would have sold out and allowed supporters to create a top class atmosphere.
Speaking on RTÉ after the game, Joe Canning demanded that this fixture be moved to the likes of Tuallmore or Portlaoise moving forward.
One thing I will say, it's a pity that game wasn't on in Tullamore or Portlaoise for the atmosphere and supporters. What was there, 24,000 in Croke Park?
Imagine the atmosphere we had here in Limerick with a sell-out crowd (for the Munster final), you would have sold Tullamore or Portlaoise out.
Everybody wants to play in Croke Park, but Clare didn't accept going to Páirc Uí Chaoimh, you know that sort of way?
For supporters and stuff, we saw more Galway jersey nearly today at this match (in Limerick).
It's difficult to argue with that.
While today's game was top class in terms of action on the pitch, it would have been a far more exciting affair had it taken place at a packed ground in a different part of the province.
At this stage, it is time for the Leinster Council to bring to an end their obsession with holding games at Croke Park.
SEE ALSO: Canning & Daly Feel Controversial Decisions Went Against Clare In Munster Final
