Any fears regarding the new provincial championships may well have been put to bed for good tonight as Cork vs Limerick turned into the first classic of this new era.
In Páirc Uí Chaoimh, Cork and Limerick played out a classic that has gripped all of those keeping an eye on proceedings. Cork's second draw in three games, the scoreline in the end was, Cork 1-25 Limerick 0-28
What a game of hurling 👏🏻👏🏻
— Kieran Donaghy (@starryboy14) June 2, 2018
Epic
— Anthony Daly (@DaloAnto) June 2, 2018
Limerick, what a performance with 14 men. Unbelievable. First day in the terrace since 2007, there will be many more 😂 #luimneachabú #limerick
— Seánie Tobin (@Tellytobin) June 2, 2018
Whoever it was in the GAA that figured out that the only thing better than the hurling Championship is more of it deserves a promotion
— ConorMcKeon (@ConorMcKn) June 2, 2018
Reduced to 14-men after an inexplicable foul from Aaron Gillane threatened to undermine a classic-in-the-making, Limerick have laid down a marker on their intentions for the year ahead - even if only a point has been earned.
Going into the half-way mark two points and one man behind, Limerick would have been forgiven for a credible defeat to Cork in Páirc Uí Chaoimh tonight. Yet, this is something altogether unpalatable for a Limerick side John Kiely is still in the process of assembling.
With a host of young talent, Anthony Daly, the two-time All-Ireland winner with Clare who worked with many of these players in his academy role with Limerick hurling, was onto something when he suggested that the "hang ups were gone."
Although greater tests may come by way of Kilkenny, or, particularly, Galway, this Limerick team have little or no fear of their Munster counterparts.
Ahead as the match headed into the final few minutes, Limerick may well rue not seeing out what would have been a valuable, and perhaps deserved win, against Cork.
Yet, John Meyler's men are made of hardier stuff; Patrick Horgan imperious on free-taking duty, and scoring the game's only goal to boot.
Patrick Horgan goal for Cork pic.twitter.com/bWy30LrW6S
— The GAA (@officialgaa) June 2, 2018
Perhaps the brightest of all Limerick's young talents, Cian Lynch was once again instrumental in his new midfield role. Dictating the pace, and picking off scores, it looks a real breakthrough year for the Patrickswell man.
Cian Lynch point for Limerick pic.twitter.com/FQFAqXRV9R
— The GAA (@officialgaa) June 2, 2018
After such a breathless game of intense hurling, the reaction around the country has been startling.
I think limerick were savage tonight with 14 but special mention goes to seamus Flanagan & graham mulcahy their hooking blocking chasing was the difference 💪🏼
— Eddie Brennan (@NedzerB13) June 2, 2018
So proud of @LimerickCLG this evening, and especially our own Dan and Tom. Epic performance, never say die. Some atmosphere, real Munster championship 🇳🇬🇳🇬
— OLLIE MORAN (@olmorfs) June 2, 2018
That’s as good a game of hurling as you could ever wish for. This Limerick team mean business. Delighted to get something from that.
— John Keogh (@johnnybkeogh) June 2, 2018
Fabulous game at Pairc Ui Chaoimh. This is the most exciting and dangerous Limerick team since Joe McKenna was banging in goals back in the day. What a summer in prospect! #CorkvLim #hurling
— Alan English (@AlanEnglish9) June 2, 2018
#corkandlimerick wow what a game. well done both teams.The attitude of the Limerick players outstanding. Thier supporter must be very proud. more of this please 👏👏👏
— Vinnie Murphy QFA (@Vinniedub14) June 2, 2018
Epic stuff in Pairc Uì Chaoimh. Thanks for that #Limerick and #Cork. Incredible character and quality from both 👍👍#corkvlimerick
— Peter O'Connell (@Westclarepage) June 2, 2018
This limerick team mirror image of the Carey Kirby era of 90s ! Hardy whores and boy can the hurl #corkvlimerick
— Noel Mackey (@topdogmack) June 2, 2018
Limerick looking like real contenders for the All Ireland here, great game of hurling
— Michael Doran (@michaeldoran_) June 2, 2018
Stunning point. Limerick appear to be back as a major hurling force. #MunsterGAA18
— Dermot Keyes (@DermotKeyes) June 2, 2018
Limerick showing great courage with 14 men , cliffhanger
— Paul Doyle (@pauldoyle200) June 2, 2018
