Exultation in Six - Limerick's Victories in Munster Finals
Limerick stands on the precipice of a remarkable feat in Munster hurling, aiming to become the first team to win seven senior titles in a row. This would rival the provincial milestone set by Brian Cody's great Kilkenny team of 2005-2011. As they take on Cork in the 2023 final, let's retrace their incredible journey that started back in 2019.
They missed out on the provincial decider in 2018 but managed to secure third place in the round-robin, earning a spot in the knockout stages. They went all the way, edging out Galway in a thrilling final to claim their first All-Ireland SHC triumph in 43 years.
Their defense started shaky, losing to Cork at home, but bounced back with huge wins over Waterford (20 points) and Clare (18) to secure their place in the final round against Tipperary. Despite Seamus Callanan's goal for the Premier, Limerick rested key players and showed their true strength back on home turf, overturning a one-point deficit to claim a 12-point victory.
Limerick retained the Munster crown in 2020, beating Waterford in a hard-fought match to extend their winning streak in the province to two years. In 2021, they faced a tough challenge from Tipperary but managed to come back from a ten-point half-time deficit to secure their third title in a row.
In 2022, Limerick battled hard against Clare in the rain at Thurles, eventually emerging victorious in extra-time. In 2023, they had a narrow 1-point victory over an improving Clare side in the group stages, but managed to secure their fifth title in a row with a six-point win in the final rematch.
However, their bid for a six-in-a-row was ended by a surprising defeat to Cork in the All-Ireland semi-finals, but they still had a chance to add another Munster title to their collection in 2024.
The stage is set for a fierce showdown between Limerick and Cork in the Munster SHC final. Can the Treaty make history and win their seventh title in a row, or will the Rebels upset their rivals and end their impressive run? Tune in to find out!
Amidst their remarkable run in Munster hurling, Limerick also showcased their prowess in football, with their Under-20 team clinching the Munster title in 2021, marking their first victory in this league since 1997. This year, they have their sights set on the All-Ireland Under-20 football final, looking to extend their winning streak in the sport.
