Tipp in firing line as talented Limerick look a serious threat once again

Limerick begin the defence of their Munster MHC title at the Gaelic Grounds tonight (7pm) against Tipperary, the county they beat in last year’s semi-final (1-17 to 0-17) en-route to claiming a first minor provincial crown since 1984.

Seven of last year’s side are back, including the outstanding Lynch pair Cian (captain, from the Patrickswell club, nephew of Ciarán Carey) and Ronan (Na Piarsaigh, vice-captain). Others from the side who started the All-Ireland semi-final against Galway are Barry Nash, Sean Finn, Andrew La Touche-Cosgrave, Tom Morrissey and Colin Ryan. Several others who start were part of the 2013 panel, including goalkeeper Eoghan McNamara, defenders Jamie Porter and Lorcan Lyons, and forwards Seamus Flanagan and Ed Doyle, making this a very experienced Limerick side.

Tipperary have only three starters from last year, including keeper and captain Brian Hogan from Lorrha and Dorrha, son of Premier legend Ken. Also returning for Tipp are Darragh Peters and Willie Connors, while 15-year-old Brian McGrath, another member of the renowned Loughmore-Castleiney family, is in the subs.