The 1987 championship saw Galway qualify for their third final in a row, after defeats in the finals of 1985 and 1986 final. Still managed by Farrell, Galway overcame Tipperary by 3-20 to 2-17 to make it to the decider. Captained by Conor Hayes and inspired by the young Joe Cooney, who scored five points on the day, Galway defeated Kilkenny by 1-12 to 0-09 in the final. Cooney was named Hurler of the Year for his performances at the age of just 22. They defeated Tipperary in the 1988 final to win their fourth ever All-Ireland and retain their title for the first time.