Matching Limerick’s workrate will be key for Tipp
The very fact that Limerick are the opposition to Tipperary in this weekend’s Munster Senior Hurling Final means the glamour of a provincial final returns reminding one of times gone by.
In recent years Limerick have replaced Kilkenny as Tipp’s bogey side and they have found the measure of the Premier County of late.
None of the bookies or pundits will give Tipperary much hope but one thing we know is that Tipp manager Liam Sheedy will have his troops firing and raring to go.
Sheedy is a winner and his side-line mannerisms throughout this year’s league campaign suggests he’s as keen as ever.
The Tipp team pretty much picks itself when everyone is available and the only change we might see from the Clare game is the return of Niall O’Meara who is fit again following an operation on his appendix. Alan Flynn could force his way back in too but that would mean a reshuffle in midfield.
The toughest task on the day for Tipp will be matching the workrate and physical attributes of this Limerick side. John Kiely has worked wonders since taking over as manager and similarly to Liam Sheedy, demands an honesty of effort from every one of his players.
So how will it go? I think it will be much tighter than last year’s one-sided affair in Pairc Ui Chaoimh. Limerick still have the edge and are rightly favourites but if Tipp can out-work them and take whatever goal chances come their way, they might just come out on top.