Limerick IT delay in naming choice of venue angers UL

UNIVERSITY of Limerick are angry that their neighbours Limerick Institute of Technology have delayed naming their choice of venue for next Saturday’s glamour Fitzgibbon Cup quarter-final.

It is understood that LIT coach Dave Fitzgerald is anxious that the match be played at a Clare venue, either at Shannon or at the ground of his home club, Sixmilebridge.

"We believe they want to take the fixture out of Limerick. The delay in naming their preferred choice they have 'home' venue is unfair to our players and supporters," a UL spokesperson said.

A spokesman for LIT said that a decision was likely today.

Meanwhile, last year's defeated finalists Waterford IT will be at full strength for this afternoon's Datapac Fitzgibbon Cup quarter-final clash with GMIT at JK Brackans Ground, Templemore (2pm).

Ken Coogan is suffering from flu, but is expected to be fit, as WIT bid to get back to the final and make amends for last year's defeat at the hands of UL.

A big boost to the Waterford college this year is the availability of Limerick senior Ollie Moran.

As coach to UL last year, he mastermind the defeat of WIT in a terrific final in Galway and is now in quest of a Fitzgibbon medal as a player.

There is a very solid look about WIT, who have Kilkenny's JJ Delaney and Brian Dowling, Joe Brady (Offaly), and Tipp's Paul Curran in their side.

Curran will captain the side and they will be favourites to reach the last four.

GMIT are in a transition period, having lost eight of last year's team.

They will be depending on Trevor Kavanagh and Cathal Coen, who won minor All-Ireland medals with Galway four years ago, along with Barry Loughnane (son of Ger) and David Collins, a Galway minor last year.

"We have no real big names this year which is something of a drawback, but what we have will battle hard and won't be beaten for the want of effort," said team official Damien Curley.