SPORTING occasions are normally exactly that, occasions of sport. Sometimes, but not often, sports occasions can be remembered for more than the sport. Munster Hurling finals, Munster versus the All Blacks. You see the picture. Last Saturday night, the International Rules series between Ireland and Australia will be remembered as a great night for Limerick city and Limerick GAA, but also as a poor night for one of our national games. Football.
The 47-40 scoreline and the lack of one hard hit, left the 30,000 plus crowd disappointed. Were it not for the amazing spectacular laid on by Limerick GAA, then the night would have been a complete disaster.
From the work of the Gardai and stewards to the Super Model Twins and the Stunning, the night, as an entertaining evening was a success. The tripe that was served up on the pitch was the main disappointment. The saving grace after a dull and lifeless ‘match’ was the fireworks, which illuminated the sky for those travelling home or enjoying a few pints at the local and very busy watering holes.
Even though Australia won a tame game of shadow boxing, Limerick as a county and Limerick GAA were the real winners. In the game itself, the Aussies masteredw the art of kicking the round ball. An act that the Irish footballers seem to be regressing in.
The fare served up by both teams was poor to say the least. The new lights at the Gaelic Grounds highlighted the magnificent stadium that for too long has been left idol by the national GAA. The token olive branch of an international rules series ‘first leg’ only left the GAA hierarchy with egg on their face. Limerick, like with all things sporting, embraced the idea and made it their own. It is just a pity, the holidaying Aussies and the over hyped Irish footballers did not see it fit to show their all
in this arena. A real shame, seeing as they will not be back here any time soon.
In other GAA news, Crusheen (Clare) will play Kilmallock (Limerick) in the AIB Munster Senior Club Hurling Championship on Sunday October 31st at 2:00pm at Cusack Park Ennis. Kilmallock, winners of the Limerick county championship are coached by former Clare manager Tony Considine. The men in green and white will be favourites for this one, only just though.
