Limerick excitement builds ahead of All-Ireland final | RTÉ News (IE)

Limerick's hurling manager, John Kiely, emphasized the crucial role of the supporters in propelling the team to another All-Ireland Senior Hurling Final. He recounted a moment in the semi-final against Clare where he urged the crowd to make themselves heard, and their roaring response helped secure the victory.

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They were so wrapped in the game, they forgot to do their job. You have a job to do. You have something to do. You can contribute.

Kiely credits the fans for their vocal support, noting their cheers for "every block, every hook, every catch" in the crucial final minutes. He sees the supporters as an integral part of the team's performance, stating, "You have a job to do. You have something to do. You can contribute." This sentiment is echoed by young fans, like 10-year-old Patsy Power, who declared, "I'll do my job on Sunday and you be doing your job, John Kiely."

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I'll do my job on Sunday and you be doing your job, John Kiely

Excitement is palpable throughout Limerick as the team prepares to face Galway. The Cúl Camp in Ahane GAA Club buzzed with energy, with 200 children who have grown up during Limerick's dominant era. Players like Gearoid Hegarty, Cian Lynch, and Diarmuid Byrnes are favorites, but brothers Tom and Dan Morrissey hold top billing, especially in Ahane's centenary year.

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I think the Galway team have a very similar profile to the Limerick team in 2018. They're a team that you're going to fear a little bit. You're going to give them a lot of respect. It won't be an easy game on the day and I think it will go down to the wire.

Ahane's club chairman, Donal Morrissey, acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by Galway, comparing them to the Limerick team of 2018. He anticipates a closely contested match, predicting it will "go down to the wire." Morrissey also highlighted the impact of Limerick's underage success, including the minor hurlers' dramatic All-Ireland win, where supporters were crucial. Conor Ryan of the Monaleen club described the crowd's effect as being "like a substitute coming on and scoring a goal."

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John Kiely will definitely be turning around to the crowd and urging them to get behind the team