Limerick absolutely bolted out of the traps but Waterford were doing their best to cling on.
The Allianz Leagues Hurling Final was rip-roaring fare and All-Ireland champs Limerick raced into an 0-8 to 0-2 lead over the Deise.
Stephen O’Keeffe had to be at his most brave, and reckless, to prevent Alan Gillane from rippling the back of his net after only six minutes. Gillane looked dead set to score but O’Keeffe raced from his line and heedlessly flung his body ay the ball.
Courageous save by Stephen O'Keefe for @WaterfordGAA pic.twitter.com/0b67PNa2tu
— The GAA (@officialgaa) March 31, 2019
Still Limerick pressed and they were making hay with scores in the early stages. Jamie Barron was starting to find space, though, and Stephen Bennett was finding his range as Waterford got their act together.
They got back to within a point of Limerick when Gillane scored an absolute gem of a goal.
Tom Morrissey drove the sliothar in on a low trajectory and Gillane, having lost his marker, knew exactly what he was up to. His flick had to be spot on to beat O’Keeffe and that it was.
Pure class by Aaron Gillane to find the net for @LimerickCLG pic.twitter.com/lp1ao1jXL9
— The GAA (@officialgaa) March 31, 2019
The reaction to Gillane’s flicked goal said it all.
Morrisey's pass for Gillane's neat flick for the goal was slick out #silkyhurling
— Brian Timmons (@BrianTimmytron6) March 31, 2019
https://twitter.com/FTYFAN1/status/1112345776150196225
https://twitter.com/Jimmy25white/status/1112346679834038272
That was one of the best goals I've seen by Gillane. Luimneach looking good but Port Lairge still very much in it
— Pádraic MacCoitir ☭ (@CoitirMac) March 31, 2019
The Limerick forward was close to un-markable in the first half as he scored with impunity.
It is a real joy to watch him in full flow.
