Na Piarsaigh and Doon Battle for Glory in Limerick Senior Hurling Championship Final
Doon and Na Piarsaigh are set to clash in the highly anticipated Limerick Senior Hurling Championship Final this Sunday. The match will kick off at 3:30 PM in the TUS Gaelic Grounds, officiated by referee Kieran Guina from the Feohanagh Castemahon club.
Exciting History Between Doon and Na Piarsaigh
The rivalry between Doon and Na Piarsaigh has intensified over recent years. Their earlier encounter in this year’s championship ended in a draw, while last year’s final saw Doon achieving a historic milestone by winning their first-ever county title. They edged past Na Piarsaigh with a score of 0-16 to 2-9.
This season has been equally tight. In 2024, Doon managed a narrow victory over Na Piarsaigh in their group game. Furthermore, their semi-final clash in 2023 required a penalty shootout, with Doon prevailing thanks to Kevin Downes’ sudden death penalty goal.
Na Piarsaigh’s Championship Legacy
Na Piarsaigh has been a dominant force in Limerick hurling over the last decade. This final marks their twelfth appearance in the Limerick Senior Hurling Championship over the past fifteen years. The city side aims to claim their ninth championship title this weekend. Key players such as Kevin Downes, Shane Dowling, and Cathal King are all seeking their ninth county medals.
Doon’s Historic Achievement
For Doon, this final signifies a remarkable achievement, as it is their first time reaching consecutive finals. Both teams have maintained unbeaten records throughout this year’s championship, adding to the suspense of the upcoming match.
Injury Updates and Player Performances
- Richie English, a crucial player for Na Piarsaigh, missed the county semi-final victory over Ballybrown due to a hamstring tweak but is hopeful for a return.
- Conor Boylan and John Fitzgerald from Na Piarsaigh remain sidelined due to injury, with Boylan facing a broken bone in his foot, and Fitzgerald recovering from a serious hamstring injury.
- For Doon, sharpshooter Adam English has scored an impressive 1-45 throughout the championship.
- Adrian Breen has been a standout for Na Piarsaigh, contributing 4-14 from play.
Key Match-Ups to Watch
One of the intriguing match-ups includes the battle between inter-county teammates William O’Donoghue and Darragh O’Donovan in the middle third. This dynamic clash could prove pivotal in the final’s outcome.
In the event of a tie at the end of normal time, the match will proceed to extra time. If the teams cannot be separated thereafter, a penalty shootout will decide the champion.
Looking Ahead
The winner of the Limerick Senior Hurling Championship will face Ballygunner in the Munster SHC quarter-final, scheduled for November 2 at the TUS Gaelic Grounds. Additionally, Limerick’s All-Ireland winning U21 team of 2000 will be honored during the county final festivities.
