Limerick Faces Tough Call in Goal as Quaid’s Replacement Uncertain for Munster SHC Opener

Injury to Quaid Poses Challenge for Limerick

Limerick manager John Kiely is grappling with a difficult decision ahead of the Munster Senior Hurling Championship (SHC) opener against Tipperary on Sunday. The crucial position in question? GoalKEEPER. Following Nickie Quaid’s cruciate ligament rupture while playing soccer in November, Kiely must now choose between Jason Gillane and comeback kid Shane Dowling to fill Quaid’s significant shoes.

“It’s the toss of a coin,” Kiely revealed. “The two lads have done great… But Nickie Quaid’s are not an easy set of shoes to fill.”

Quaid’s Recovery and Gillane vs. Dowling Showdown

While Limerick remains optimistic about Quaid’s potential return this summer, having resumed non-contact training, Kiely and his team are preparing for the reality that Tipperary won’t wait for the three-time All-Star nominee’s recovery.

• Former All-Star forward Dowling, who retired in 2020 due to injury but returned late last year, has started four games in the Allianz Hurling League – two more than Gillane.
• Both keepers have impressed Kiely, with the manager thrilled with their efforts throughout the winter.

Munster SHC: A Purist’s Paradise

The clashes within Munster still ignite the passion, and Kiely is no exception. “If you haven’t got passion for the Munster Championship, I hope I’ll have it until the last day I walk into a stadium,” he asserted.

Awaiting them in the first round is Tipperary, who have demonstrated signs of rebirth after a trying 2024 season, boasting a string of talented players seeking to replicate their underage successes.

Limerick’schen New Captain Steers the Ship

Cian Lynch has taken over from Declan Hannon as Limerick captain, aiming to extend Limerick’s record-setting Munster championship streak to seven in 2025. Despite the challenges ahead, the 29-year-old is relishing the opportunity to push his teammates and himself to stand among the best.

“For any player, you want to keep pushing yourself as an individual,” Lynch said. “And as a group you want to keep pushing the boundaries and keep striving to be the best you can be.”

Did you know?

Pro tip: Keep an eye on Limerick’s younger players, like Barry Murphy, Shane O’Brien, and Adam English, who are pushing for starting spots and eager to make an impact.