O’Riordan: You can’t beat local rivalry

Changed and exciting times in Limerick.

The heartache and anger which followed the stand-off between the senior hurlers and the county board two years ago are now a distant memory. Instead everyone is united as they prepare to face Clare in Saturday’s win or bust All-Ireland SHC qualifier in Semple Stadium.

It is the fifth competitive meeting of the counties this season, but such familiarity is not dampening the interest in this game according to Limerick secretary Mike O’Riordan. “No, it’s great, you can’t beat local rivalry and there’s added value in that there are two more matches as well, all for €25 for a stand ticket. The reaction so far has been very positive, a big interest in relation to ticket sales over the last few days, a big demand.”