McCarthy experiment reaps rewards

CLARE’S strong second-half showing in the Gaelic Grounds yesterday just fell short of redeeming a situation where they conceded three goals in a short period before the break.

It presented Limerick’s new manager Justin McCarthy and his experimental team with a more encouraging start to the Allianz NHL than they might have anticipated after being stretched to the limit over the last quarter and being fortunate to see Clare substitute John Conlon miss the chance of an equaliser in injury time.

After a very competitive opening 25 minutes, during which scores were level six times, Limerick were given the perfect boost when the returning Andrew O’Shaughnessy hit a cracking goal from a 27th minute penalty. And, while a six-point lead immediately afterwards might have appeared flattering, the home side actually went to their dressing room with an 11-point advantage (3-9 to 0-7).