Five crucial match-ups between Limerick and Dublin in All-Ireland hurling quarter-final

Published 4 days ago• 3 minute read

LEADER Sport takes a look at some of the crucial match-ups between Limerick and Dublin in the All-Ireland senior hurling quarter-final. The All-Ireland SHC quarter-final gets underway on Saturday evening at 4pm in Croke Park.

The sides met last year in the Allianz Hurling League when Limerick defeated Dublin 3-30 to 1-18. This is the first meeting between the counties in the championship since 2015.

John Kiely's charges will look to bounce back after their heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat to Cork in the Munster final. Meanwhile, Dublin got their championship campaign back on track with a resounding 3-25 to 0-13 victory over Kildare in the All-Ireland preliminary quarter-final on last Saturday.

A win for Limerick would see them advance to the All-Ireland semi-final against Kilkenny on Sunday July 6 in Croke Park.

Limerick full back Dan Morrissey looks likely to match up with Dublin full forward John Hetherton. Hetherton has provided 'the Dubs' with an outlet on the edge of the square and he will provide an aerial threat on Saturday evening. Morrissey has been one of Limerick's most conistent performers in the championship and the Ahane defender will relish this challenge.

Kyle Hayes has made the Limerick number six jersey his own in this year’s championship, consistently anchoring the Shannonsiders’ defence while pushing forward whenever the opportunity arises. Dublin attacker Sean Currie has built on his club campaign with Na Fianna on their run to the winning All-Ireland SHC title.The clash between Hayes and Currie could be decisive in determining the outcome.

Limerick’s Adam English and Dublin’s Brian Hayes have injected tremendous energy into their respective midfields throughout the championship. English, in particular, has stood out with an impressive 2-11 in the Munster SHC, and the dynamic UL student is expected to be marked by Hayes in Saturday’s clash.

Limerick captain Cian Lynch has looked revitalised for Limerick this season, showing signs of the brilliance that made him a two-time Hurler of the Year. His slick stickwork, intelligent positioning, and creative spark have been central to the team's attacking rhythm. Dublin's Chris Crummey looks like he will be the player to man mark the Patrickswell clubman this weekend.

Aaron Gillane has been in clinical form during the championship, racking up an impressive 2-32. His sharp movement and dominance in the air makes him a constant scoring threat at full forward, adding real firepower to John Kiely’s Limerick attack. Dublin full-back Paddy Smyth has delivered consistently solid performances throughout the Leinster championship. Despite his reliability and composure at the back, he has often flown under the radar and not received the recognition he deserves.

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