It’s not a done deal that Limerick hurlers will win All-Ireland again

Inside Track with John McIntyre

IF we are to take heed of the hurling experts, the 2022 All-Ireland senior title rests between two teams – champions Limerick, and Waterford. The rest are being virtually written off, such is the awe the Shannonsiders, in particular, are held in. Chasing a fourth Liam McCarthy Cup in five years, they continue to set the standard, but that doesn’t mean John Kiely’s charges are invincible.

Just like Galway had done in the National League last February, injury-hit Tipperary fronted up to the title holders at the Gaelic Grounds last Sunday. Only late goals from substitute Conor Boylan and Aaron Gillane, who continues to sail close to the wind in terms of his discipline, got Limerick over the line in a cracking contest.

Smarting from all the criticism their tame effort against Clare in Thurles sparked, Tipperary had reputations to retrieve. With Noel McGrath reminding us of his class, innate stickwork and vision, and Ger Browne also a big influence in a roving role, Tipperary were not in the least flattered to lead 0-14 to 1-9 at the break.

Limerick players were being hit hard and hounded in possession. They struck some bad wides and you got the sense that they were slightly taken aback by Tipperary’s work ethic and intensity. Jake Morris was another causing the home team trouble and, for much of the second-half, the outcome remained in doubt.

Tom Morrissey was one of the few Limerick players who was measuring up to his normal standards although defender Seán Finn was to finish in a blaze of glory. Gearóid Hegarty was also doing his best work near the end as the champions’ sheer physical power finally began to wear down Tipperary.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.

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