Limerick timing their run in 2022, coupled with Waterford falling flat after their league title, means hurling folk are in no rush to attribute anything major significance to springtime results this season. But Tipperary will never underestimate the power of a win over Kilkenny, especially in Nowlan Park.
The Premier went into the Cats' backyard on Sunday afternoon, and delivered their first victory over the Cats on Nore-side since 2008.
It was in no small part thanks to Jason Forde, who hit the Cats for 1-15 in a stunning personal display.
Tipperary too strong for Kilkenny
It was a testing first-half for the Cats, who endured a nightmare start against their old rivals.
Liam Cahill's charges caused significant bother to the Kilkenny puck-outs, and used that as the foundation for a 12-point lead at half-time, 2-13 to 0-7. The goals came from Forde and Jake Morris, with the former's green flag the pick of the scores.
Seamus Callanan picked out the Silvermines man with only one Kilkenny defender left inside the 45. Forde took off before releasing a bullet that flew into the net.
#KIKvTIP 27 nóim@KilkennyCLG 0-03@TipperaryGAA 1-07
Cúl aimsithe ag Jason Forde do Thiobraid Árann!👏
Seamus Callanan passes to Jason Forde who finishes with a great goal for #Tipperary!
BEO/LIVE ar @TG4tv 📺@GAA_BEO | @AllianzIreland | #AllianzLeagues | #GAABEO | #GAA pic.twitter.com/Pg7hCI4lXc— Spórt TG4 (@SportTG4) February 12, 2023
Derek Lyng did manage to get a kick out of his team after the break, as they closed the gap to four points late on.
But every time that Tipp needed a score, it was Forde who provided it. And he cut delightful line-ball over the bar from long range.
After a 2022 season to forget, the Premier County have made a fine start to the new year with two wins from two in Division 1B.
Nonetheless, Cahill will know all about the potential pitfalls of peaking too early after his experience with the Déise 12 months ago, and will know these February wins will count for little if they do not back it up in the summer months.
SEE ALSO: 'No Fire In Clare', 'Boring': RTÉ Pundits Critical Of Banner In Defeat
