Wexford Shocks Limerick, Clinches Victory despite Wide Count
LIMERICK, Ireland – Wexford overcame a significant wide count too secure a 1-19 to 1-12 victory against Limerick at the TUS Gaelic Grounds, concluding their Division 1A season on a high note. The win raises concerns for Limerick, who suffered an injury to mike Casey and displayed inconsistent form ahead of the Munster championship.
Injury Woes Deepen for Limerick Ahead of Championship
The victory was well-deserved for Wexford, who, despite accumulating 21 wides, maintained control for much of the match. Limerick struggled to find their rhythm, adding to their worries as the Munster championship approaches. The injury to key player Mike Casey in the first half further compounds their concerns.
Tight First Half Gives Way to Wexford Dominance
The opening 20 minutes saw a closely contested battle, with Limerick initially leading 0-06 to 0-05, thanks to scores from Adam English, Gearoid Hegarty, Diarmaid Byrnes, and Aaron Gillane. However, Wexford leveled the score by the 18th minute, with Lee Chin finding his range from frees. Gillane briefly restored Limerick’s lead, but it woudl be their last score for 16 minutes as Wexford seized control.
Kevin Foley, Chin, Conor Hearne, and Cathal Dunbar all contributed scores for Wexford, while Byrnes responded for Limerick just before the break, leaving them trailing 0-09 to 0-07.
Foley Goal Sparks Second-Half Surge for Wexford
Rory O’Connor and Jack Redmond extended Wexford’s lead early in the second half,but Limerick responded with a goal from Shane O’Brien and a leveling score from Tom Morrissey. However, Wexford quickly regained the lead with a crucial goal from Kevin Foley, propelling them forward.
Cian Molloy, Dunbar, Hearne, and Seamus Casey added points as Wexford dominated the final quarter, securing a decisive seven-point victory.
Limerick’s Championship Preparations in Doubt
While Limerick showed glimpses of rallying in the second half, their current form will undoubtedly cause concern as they prepare for their championship opener against tipperary on April 20 at Semple Stadium.
Match Statistics:
- Limerick: S Dowling; V harrington, M Casey, B Nash; D Byrnes (0-03, 1f, 1 ’65), C Coughlan, C Scully; M Houlihan, D O’Donovan; G Hegarty (0-01), A O’Connor; T Morrissey (0-03, 1f); A Gillane (0-04, 4fs), S O’brien (1-00), A English (0-01). Subs: S Finn for Casey (26,inj),D Ó Dálaigh for O’Brien (51),E Stokes for Hegarty (51),C Lynch for O’donovan (61),S Flanagan for Gillane (64).
- Wexford: M Fanning; C Molloy (0-01), S Donohue, C Foley; R Lawlor, D Reck (0-01), C McGuckian; C Hearne (0-03), S Reck; J O’Connor, L Chin (0-04, 4fs), K Foley (1-02); C dunbar (0-03), J Redmond (0-01), R O’Connor (0-02). Subs: E Ryan for Lawlor (43), S Casey (0-02, 1f) for Redmond (53), C Clancy for J O’Connor (65), David Codd for Dunbar (70), Darren Codd for Foley (70), M Kelly for donohue (73).
- Referee: C McDonald (Antrim).
**What specific tactical adjustments did Wexford make that contributed to thier victory over Limerick?** (This question probes for deeper analysis beyond just the outcome.)
Wexford Shocks Limerick: Q&A
Following Wexford’s surprising victory over Limerick, here’s a Q&A to break down the key details and implications of the match.
Why was Wexford’s win considered a “shock”?
Limerick is a dominant force in Gaelic games, known for their consistent success. Wexford, while competitive, aren’t typically considered favorites against them, making this win unexpected.
What does the high “wide count” mean for Wexford’s victory?
A “wide” in Gaelic games means a missed shot. Wexford’s 21 wides indicate they could have scored even more, showcasing their dominance despite inaccuracies. This also suggests areas for enhancement.
What was the impact of mike Casey’s injury for Limerick?
Mike Casey is a key player for Limerick. His injury in the first half disrupted their defensive setup and added to their woes, compounding concerns about their championship readiness.
Who were the key players for Wexford?
Kevin Foley, with his crucial goal, was instrumental. lee Chin’s accuracy from frees, Conor Hearne, Cathal Dunbar, rory O’Connor, and Seamus Casey also made significant contributions.
What’s the meaning of this match for Limerick’s upcoming championship?
Limerick’s inconsistent performance and Mike Casey’s injury raise doubts about their form going into the Munster Championship.The loss highlights areas they need to address before their opening match against Tipperary.
Wexford’s victory offers a compelling narrative, while Limerick’s challenges set the stage for an exciting Munster Championship. Keep an eye on both teams as they prepare for the upcoming season!
