Paddy hopes for divine intervention

One of Limerick’s longest-serving hurling fans is hoping divine intervention can procure a win for the Treaty men in Croke Park against Clare in the All-Ireland hurling semi-final on Sunday.

Paddy “Ida” O’Halloran, from Thomondgate, has decked out his house in the green and white and has even placed a life-sized statue of Our Lady in his front garden.

The father of 14 said he erected the statue at his home two years ago and, according to him, it seems to have helped the current Limerick team build steadily towards a final.

“I have her there two years. We need the inspiration. I think we should win on Sunday, but I thought Dublin would beat Cork last weekend,” he said.

When asked where he got the statue, the 68-year-old former docker grinned: “She came in on the tide. I’m thinking of bringing her up to Croke Park with me for the match.”

The city native has been an avid Limerick hurling fan for more than 40 years, and around the Thomondgate/Killeely area his opinion on all matters GAA is respected.

“Cork are strong but if we get over Clare, we have got to win the All-Ireland,” he said with confidence.

He also predicted Limerick, Clare, and Dublin would continue to be hurling forces again next year.

“I’ve followed sport all my life. Limerick has a great hurling history. We had the great Mick Mackey, Richie Bennis, Eamon Cregan, Gary Kirby, the list goes on and on. I fancy Limerick will beat Clare by three or four points, if its not a draw.”

The proud dad, to seven sons and seven daughters, has for 40 years been hanging sports flags and bunting at his home, which lies under the shadow of Thomond Park. “I put up the red flags and bunting for Munster, too, when they’re playing at home and I also have the flags for Na Piarsaigh hurling club up from time to time,” he added.

Paddy said that only a “foolish man” would say Kilkenny are in decline, adding that they “never go away”.