Former Antrim star Neil McManus believes Limerick will deliver the goods on Sunday against Kilkenny and write their way into the history books with a fourth successive All-Ireland senior hurling title.

Only Kilkenny (2006-2009) and Cork (1941-1944) have achieved the feats of a four-in-a-row Liam MacCarthy Cup success in the past and the Treaty men are 2/5 favourites this weekend to join them.

Writing in his column for BBC Sport NI, McManus is anticipating a cracker between the Shannonsiders and the Cats at headquarters where he’s tipped John Kiely’s men to triumph after extra time.

“Both teams will bring intensity, bravery and an abundance of skill,” wrote the Cushendall man. "The match-ups picked by the respective management teams will be intriguing and critical to the outcome. I really think we could be headed for extra time at GAA headquarters this weekend and conditioning could win the day.

“Limerick are the most athletic team the game has ever seen. I believe Kilkenny are second only to them. I hurled alongside Limerick strength and conditioning coach Cairbre O'Caireallain at minor level with Antrim when he resided in his hometown of Belfast, and he has a track record of success.

“In fact, he was in charge of Tipperary's S&C under Liam Sheedy when the Premier County last made it up the steps of the Hogan stand in 2019. He then moved into the Limerick set up and the rest as they say is history.

“Limerick will find a way to write their names into the history books this weekend but they will be made to work for it every step of the way by the old masters.”

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