Clare and Limerick prepare to share the limelight
The floodlit action marks a historic first for inter-county games in Clare and the official launch of the new lights will take place at half-time of tonight’s quarter-final tie.
“We’re very proud to be hosting this tie,” states Cooraclare secretary Sean Chambers. “We’d be very thankful to the community for their assistance in helping us raise funds and we’re honoured to be hosting this game.”
Both counties have had to contend with the new restrictions posed by collective U-21 training not being allowed to begin until January 1, something which Clare boss James Hanrahan admits impinged on their preparations.
“The new rules were a drawback for us. We wouldn’t have the amount of players that Cork and Kerry have, so we need more training than them. Also we’d only have one or two guys playing at Sigerson level.
“The lads have looked after themselves and are in good shape. We’ve a lot involved with the senior setup but we’re still happy enough with the team and how we’re progressing. It’ll be unique playing a championship match under floodlights, but Cooraclare have great facilities and it’s something to look forward to.”
Limerick manager Ollie Coffey echoes the thoughts of Hanrahan on the new rules.
“It was a major obstacle. As well, there were a few weekends in January when the weather was very bad. Since the championship is run off in March, they should be allowed train in December. It’ll have to be looked at again.
“It’s only the last few weeks that we’ve got some idea of our team. We haven’t had much access to our senior players either. Someone like Ian Ryan is a major player for us but we’ve only seen him once. But we’re hoping they’ll be fresh.”
Limerick also have injury problems with three of last year’s defenders out injured, full-back Michael McCormack (broken leg), corner back Michael Dowling (back) and centre-back Eoin Joy (shoulder). As a result regular forwards Derry McCarthy, who featured in Drom-Broadford’s Munster Club SFC winning side, and senior player Ger Collins, are picked as wing-backs.
Much of Limerick’s hopes will be pinned on their senior contingent, Bobby O’Brien and Cormac Joyce-Power forming a midfield partnership, John Mullane starting at right half-forward and free-scoring sensation Ian Ryan.
A critical issue will be how Clare can handle Ryan’s scoring threat with Dean Ryan likely to be tasked with policing him. Clare have other senior representatives in centre-back Liam Markham and a strong midfield duo in Gary Brennan and Cathal O’Connor. Seniors Sean Collins (Cratloe) and Enda Lyons (St Joseph’s Doora-Barefield) will lead the scoring charge up front.
It’s a difficult game to call but if Clare can nullify Ryan’s influence and harness the home support, a semi-final date with Tipperary can be theirs.
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