BREAKING: Michael Lowry labels Tipperary hurling vandalism in Kilkenny 'disgusting'
The neighbouring counties are preparing to do battle in Sunday's All-Ireland senior hurling semi-final in Croke Park.
Tipperary North and Kilkenny North-West TD, Michael Lowry, has described the actions of those who defaced a sign wishing the Kilkenny team the best of luck against Tipperary on Sunday as "the behaviour of mindless vandals".
The sign, located in Urlingford, has been daubed and smeared with red paint that reads "Up Tipp", and the presumption is that this childish behaviour was carried out by a Tipperary supporter or supporters.
"Whoever did this is not a true GAA supporter," says Deputy Lowry, "no genuine supporter would behave in this way. They should hang their head in shame for bringing this kind of behaviour to the game".
"There is huge excitement in the build-up to this game, as there always is when these rival teams meet on the pitch.
"There is also the usual banter between the two counties, it’s all part of the build-up and enjoyed by the followers of both counties. It symbolises the great rivalry between the two and the huge respect that they have for each other.
"Every Tipperary supporter I have spoken with has expressed disgust at this and rightly so," he said.