Preview: SH semi-final: Kilkenny v Limerick
August 09, 2014
Kilkenny's Henry Shefflin and Richie McCarthy of Limerick. INPHO
Despite their runaway 4-26 to 1-11 quarter-final victory over Wexford, the Shannonsiders will make the trip to Dublin more in hope than expectation.
Brian Cody, however, isn't going to be lulled into a false sense of security.
"That win [against Wexford] saw Limerick give an example of their potential and strength. They were hugely impressive. They're huge opposition; a top team and a tough challenge.
"Their forward play is very good but I think they've been outstanding in midfield. Every aspect of their team is strong but they've played with great spirit and work rate. They have all the ingredients. The challenge is there for us."
Cody is chasing a remarkable 10th All-Ireland title as manager while Henry Shefflin hopes to achieve the same feat on the field of play.
Limerick's TJ Ryan is well aware of the size of the challenge that awaits them: "They have a forward line and I would say if eight sat down to pick the Kilkenny forwards to start the next day that none of us might get it right.
"They have an awful lot of options and probably 10 fellas that could play on any given day. There is an embarrassment of riches there in that forward line. I have put three or four forward lines that could play but I don't know."
Verdict - Kilkenny.
Kilkenny team: David Herity; Paul Murphy, JJ Delaney, Jackie Tyrrell; Joey Holden, Brian Hogan, Cillian Buckley; Richie Hogan, Conor Fogarty; Padraig Walsh, Michael Fennelly, TJ Reid; Colin Fennelly, Mark Kelly, Eoin Larkin.
Limerick team: Nickie Quaid; Tom Condon, Richie McCarthy, Seamus Hickey; Paudie O'Brien, Wayne McNamara, Gavin O'Mahony; James Ryan, Paul Browne; David Breen, Donal O'Grady, Declan Hannon; Shane Dowling, Kevin Downes, Graeme Mulcahy.
Match details: Sunday, Croke Park, 3.30pm.
Referee: James McGrath (Westmeath).
Odds: Kilkenny 4/9, Draw 10/1, Limerick 9/4. Tweet
