THE Limerick SHC final will take place this coming weekend as Kilmallock will face the challenge of Patrickswell. The highly anticipated county final clash will be held in TUS Gaelic Grounds on Sunday, 24thOctober. Throw In is at 3:45pm.
Looking ahead to the game, Kilmallock’s captain Philip O’Loughlin mentioned the significance of reaching a final for the first time since 2017 and the importance of winning while inspiring the parish as he said:
“It’s great to be back in the final again, we were in the final in 2017, but obviously lost out that day to Na Piarsaigh… we can’t wait, can’t wait to get going.
“After the manner of the win on Sunday, you can see there’s a great buzz around Kilmallock, people are excited… Its brilliant for the town… to bring a bit of joy to peoples lives at home is brilliant.”
Having seen off Doon in the previous round, the belief is building within Kilmallocks ranks ahead of Sundays final. O’Loughlin mentioned the ability and talent his side possesses. However, he fully understands the challenge that lies ahead in Patrickswell who have seen such success in the competition over the years.
“We haven’t won a county since 2014, you’ve had Na Piarsaigh and Patrickswell in the last few years really kind of dominating… all we can do is we want to focus on ourselves and take each game at a time… we know we have great potential in our team.
“On the day we know we can mix it with the best of them.”
O’Loughlin was complimentary towards his counterparts when discussing their history and success throughout the years in the championship. Stating the immense hurdle, they must overcome on Sunday to take home a county title, he said,
“The last time both sides met in a county final was 1992 if I’m correct… both teams know each other quite well… Patrickswell, they’re top of the roll with honour, huge club with huge tradition… we face a huge challenge to outperform them Sunday week.”
Winning a county final would be huge for Kilmallock, not only for the current side but also the younger generation looking forward. The old saying says success breeds success and that’s certainly how the Kilmallock man views the importance of a victory following the full-time whistle on Sunday.
“It would be massive for Kilmallock to get their hands on the Daly cup again… brilliant for the younger generation in Kilmallock and the town itself to really inspire those young guys.”
Patrickswell will be favoured by many. However, Kilmallock have reached this point through effort and fully deserve respect heading into the clash. And with nothin to choose between the teams, the game should be one of high entertainment and quality.
The match will be shown on TG4, with coverage starting from 3:15pm.
Hear the full interview with O’Loughlin below.
The post WATCH: Kilmallock captain Philip O’Loughlin looks ahead to “huge challenge” against Patrickswell in Limerick SHC Final this Sunday appeared first on Sporting Limerick.
