Limerick win respect and hearts of fans

CONTRASTING fortunes in the Gaelic Grounds on Saturday - contradictory fortunes also.

Limerick lost the match to become the first casualty in Munster, the first to go into the new All-Ireland qualifier system, but in the gutsy and cohesive manner in which they fought to the bitter end, they won back respect and the hearts of their supporters.

Tipperary won the match with a display of skill and character to advance to a semi-final meeting with Clare in two weeks, but their support is far more demanding, far more critical. They remain unconvinced. They’re wrong.