All Ireland Hurling Championship 2024 preview: History is within Treaty’s grasp
2024 will echo the intensity of 2010, as Limerick embarks on ‘the drive for five’. The pursuit of a fifth All-Ireland Hurling Championship title has dominated conversations, and it seems Limerick will be hearing about it wherever they go— that is, assuming they make it to the final in July.
Looking back to 2010, Kilkenny’s renowned team, led by Brian Cody, fell short in the final moments to Tipperary, who secured victory with four spectacular goals. Lar Corbett’s magical hat-trick etched itself into the annals of hurling history. To derail John Kiely’s formidable Limerick team, it will likely take a barrage of goals from their opponents.
However, Limerick understands this challenge and will not allow history to repeat itself. The biggest test for them will be navigating through the fiercely competitive Munster group, where high-intensity battles are the norm. In May, Limerick secured a crucial one-point victory in their final provincial group game, securing second place and sending Cork packing.
If Cork had managed to win by a mere point, Limerick’s dream of a historic Munster five-in-a-row, as well as a record-breaking All-Ireland four-in-a-row, would have been shattered. But Limerick proved their mettle, securing resounding nine-point victories over Galway and Kilkenny in the subsequent All-Ireland semi-final and final.
While Galway and Kilkenny were spared the grueling battles Limerick faced in Munster, competing in a big Leinster final against each other, the outcome was unexpected. Despite this advantage, Limerick emerged as the dominant force.
If Limerick misses out on success in Munster in 2024, it would not be surprising to see Kilkenny storm through and seize the opportunity to win their first All-Ireland title since 2015. Kilkenny has previously proven their strength by defeating Clare in two All-Ireland semi-finals at Croke Park. Under Derek Lyng’s second season in charge, Kilkenny remains a formidable team, with the potential to challenge Limerick’s supremacy.
To enhance their chances, Kilkenny needs another prolific scorer to alleviate the burden on Eoin Cody. If Adam English also proves his worth, Kilkenny could pose a serious threat to Limerick’s dominance. On the other hand, Limerick’s prospects may improve with the potential return of Sean Finn, along with the incredible talent of Cathal O’Neill. Even without Finn, Limerick demonstrated their ability to overcome challenges, with Cian Lynch not hitting his stride until the All-Ireland final and Declan Hannon absent during the All-Ireland series.
Limerick’s success can be attributed to their ability to continually produce one or two players who excel each year, even as impact substitutes. The environment they have created ensures the emergence of exceptional talent. Ballygunner, at the club level, bears the closest resemblance to Limerick. St. Thomas’ blueprint of relentless intensity, both on and off the ball, managed to unsettle Limerick momentarily.
However, Limerick relishes that physicality and can effortlessly match any team in terms of physicality and work rate. If Cork had reached the All-Ireland series, it would have been intriguing to see their performance, as Pat Ryan’s calm assurance and confidence seems to be permeating through the players.
Notably, Ciaran Joyce’s presence as number six instills confidence in Cork’s defense, and the growth of Rob and Eoin Downey, along with Brian Roche, gives them the resolve to challenge Limerick. The absence of Robbie O’Flynn last year was a significant loss. With four All-Ireland Under-21/20 finals in a row, including two victories, Cork appears best equipped to challenge Limerick. However, navigating the treacherous waters of Munster could prove detrimental to Cork’s aspirations.
Galway faces struggles in their offensive play, while Waterford has faltered in crucial Munster matchups. Clare, while resolute against Limerick, still needs to find another gear to secure their fifth All-Ireland title. Additionally, the limited player pool presents challenges for Clare and Waterford in terms of strength in depth.
Tipp, under Liam Cahill’s second year of leadership, hopes to improve upon their performance after a collapse in the 2023 Championship. However, the title is undeniably Limerick’s to lose, with Cork, Kilkenny, and Tipperary emerging as the most likely contenders to deny Limerick their quest for greatness and secure their position as hurling’s premier force.
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Startling excitement is building for the upcoming 2024 All-Ireland Hurling Championship, with Limerick aiming to make history with a fifth consecutive title win. Limerick’s journey to the championship will be anything but easy, as they face tough opposition and intense battles in the Munster group. However, Limerick’s resolute spirit and unmatched talent make them the team to beat. Other strong contenders, such as Kilkenny, Cork, and Tipperary, will certainly put up a fight, but Limerick’s dominance and unwavering determination give them a definitive edge. Fans around the globe eagerly await the unfolding of this historic championship, as Limerick aims to etch their name in hurling legend.
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