ATTENTION turns this week to the Hyundai Limerick Motor Centre sponsored Limerick Senior Hurling championship.
With the stars of the Limerick senior hurling panel lining out for their local clubs, attendances at this weekend’s games are expected to be large.
With doubts over the fitness of Kevin Downes, Conor Allis and Sean Tobin ahead of the All Ireland semi final against Clare, Limerick manager John Allen will be hoping for an injury free weekend.
Saturday, Gaelic Grounds, 6pm
Ahane vs Croom
A TOP versus bottom clash as Ahane look to cement their place in the semi while Croom looked doomed to the relegation playoffs. Ahane have exceeded expectations this term and are starting to look like genuine contenders for the championship and will hope that they can send a message out to the rest of the county with a commanding victory.
Prediction: Ahane
Saturday, Bruff, 7.15pm
Garryspillane vs South Liberties
AN encounter with both sides having all to play for. It’s a winner takes all situation with a place in the last eight being the coveted prize. Expect this to got to the wire. Both sets of supporters will be fortunate if they have any fingernails remaining. A betting man would avoid this one, however it promises to be an enthralling encounter.
Prediction: Liberties to shade it
Saturday, Childers Road, 7.15pm
Doon vs Granagh/Balingarry
DOON have fast become the dark horses in this championship and took a major scalp in the last round defeating Na Piarsaigh. Their counterparts have had a championship to forget thus far and it may be a long evening on Saturday as Doon look to seize hold of the group, something which very few would have predicted in May.
Prediction: Doon
Saturday, Gaelic Grounds, 7.30pm
Patrickswell vs Na Piarsaigh
ANOTHER do or die encounter. Na Piarsaigh did not expect to find themselves in this uncomfortable position and Patrickswell are by no means going to surrender without a fight. This promises to be the tie of the round and expect both sides to leave everything on the pitch. However, the city side should have enough quality to see themselves through.
Prediction: Na Piarsaigh
Saturday, Kilmallock, 7.15pm
Adare vs Knockainey
KNOCKainey above performed better than expected and will be well aware that the prospect of a quarter-final is still very much a possibility. However, they now face their toughest task to date and it may be one hurdle too high. Adare have looked good and with Declan Hannon in blistering form they should seal the deal to top the group.
Prediction: Adare
Saturday, Ballybrown, 7.15pm
Murroe/Boher vs Bruree
BRUREE have been the a let down in the group and they face a long evening come Saturday. Murroe/Boher have it all to play for and victory should ensure them of a place in the quarter-final. They have the superior quality on paper and expect that to follow through on the field.
Prediction: Murroe/Boher
Friday, Bruff, 7.15pm
Ballybrown vs H/Herberstown
BALLYbrown have looked very good this term while their counterparts have been disappointing. Ballybrown have raised a few eyebrows with their exceptional form and I cannot fathom that they should change now. Expect a comfortable victory for the city champions.
Prediction: Ballybrown
Friday, Kilfinane, 7.15pm
Kilmallock vs Effin
EFFIN have had a good term to date however they face the champions. Kilmallock have picked up where they left off last term and don’t look like surrendering their championship. Effin will put up a dogged challenge, but still expect the inevitable.
Prediction: Kilmallock
