THE mention of the word ‘Offaly’ strikes fear into the heart of Limerick hurling supporters the World over. The ‘Faithful’ county have, over the years, been a torn in the side for Limerick hurling. Outside of the 1994 All Ireland hurling final debacle, Offaly seem to have a knack of getting one over on the Shannonsiders.
The qualifiers in 2008 and 2010 are just two nightmare days that spring to mind.
Last weekend Limerick led the Offaly men 2-12 to 1-9 with 15 minutes remaining. Some fans, who have been there for the footballers defeat to Waterford, headed for the exit. The game was almost won.
Ollie Baker’s side were not finished however. Offaly, as usual, left it late.
John Allen’s side will contest the last minute penalty award from here to eternity, but the fact of the matter remains. It should never have been a three point game.
The final score line in the drawn game was 2-16 Offaly 4-10. Limerick will be and rightfully so, happy with the 2-16 haul. The 4-10 concession though is worrying.
Limerick face Antrim this weekend knowing that the Division 1B final might just be out of reach. Clare should be Offaly, but can Limerick beat Antrim? If they can, the final awaits. Not against Offaly. Thank heavens for that.
Limerick side that played Offaly:
Nickie Quaid; Stephen Walsh, Richie McCarthy, Tom Condon; Gavin O’Mahony, Donal O’Grady, Wayne McNamara; James Ryan, Paul Browne; Niall Maher, David Breen, Conor Allis; Graeme Mulcahy, Niall Moran, Thomas Quaid. Subs: Sean Tobin for Niall Maher (28mins), Kevin Downes for Niall Moran (59mins), Seanie O’Brien for David Breen (63mins), Mikey Ryan for Thomas Quaid (72mins).
