Joy at last for Na Piarsiagh

THERE were several shocks around the country yesterday but perhaps the biggest was in Limerick where Na Piarsaigh claimed their first county title with a 2-18 to 0-13 win over Ahane at the Gaelic Grounds.

Motivated by the memory of a mauling from Adare in their first final two years ago, favouritism based on youth and skill was more than justified. Given the boost of a fortuitous goal in the 10th minute and firmly shutting the door on a potential Ahane recovery at the three-quarters stage with a second goal from Shane Dowling, the excellence over their overall display made them deserved winners.

With captain Kieran Bermingham stating they were “laughed at” two years ago and proclaiming “the boys of 2009 are now the men of 2011”,jubilant manager Sean Stack agreed his team had learned a lot in the interim period.