Fired-up Waterford stand in the way of historic sporting achievement
LIMERICK and Waterford will contest the first Christmas All-Ireland Senior Hurling Final in almost a century at Croke Park on Sunday.
“It’s gas like, on one hand you’re putting up the Christmas tree at home, and at the same time you’re preparing for an All-Ireland Final,” captain Declan Hannon of Adare told the Limerick Post.
Limerick Mayor Michael Collins said he was asking Limerick people to show their support by dressing their homes and businesses in green.
It’s the first All-Ireland decider between Limerick and Waterford and the only final to be played behind closed doors.
It’s all in sharp contrast from 2018 when Limerick triumphed over Galway, to win their first All-Ireland title since 1973. This time around, Limerick fans will largely have to watch the 133rd All-Ireland Senior Hurling Final from their own homes.
Wet pubs remain off limits until the New Year, while pubs serving food, clubhouses and hotels are likely to be fully booked up.
There will be no traditional final night banquet and homecoming, which drew 90,000 fans on to the streets of Limerick in August 2018.
Limerick GAA Chairman John Cregan pleaded with supporters to obey public health guidelines. To the renowned Limerick following, he added: “I hope our hurlers have put a smile on your face and a pep in your step and given all of you a much-needed boost during such a challenging period in all our lives.”
The bookies have made Limerick warm favourites to win out for the second time inside three years, and claim only a ninth title in the long and prized history of the championship.
The team is once again skippered by Declan Hannon, who is hoping to join the legendary Mick Mackey as a twice All-Ireland winning Limerick captain on Sunday.
All-Star Aaron Gillane remains a major injury concern for Limerick, and his participation remains unclear ahead of team selection on Friday night.
By Mal Keaveney
