Tipperary and Limerick Set to Clash in Pivotal League Encounter
FBD Semple Stadium will host a highly anticipated National Hurling League clash between Tipperary and Limerick this Saturday, with throw-in scheduled for 5:30pm. The match, overseen by referee Colm Lyons of Cork, pits two hurling powerhouses against each other as Tipperary seeks to overcome a historical hurdle against their rivals.
Team Lineups and Key Changes
Tipperary manager Liam Cahill has announced five changes to his starting lineup. Barry Hogan replaces Rhys Shelly in goals, while Joe Caesar, Eoghan Connolly, Noel McGrath, and Seán Kenneally approach into the team, taking the places of Johnny Ryan, Josh Keller, Darragh Stakelum, and the suspended Jason Forde. All but Forde are named among the substitutes.
Notably, Seán O’Farrell will feature in the half-forward line, a shift from his defensive role in the recent defeat to Cork. All-Ireland winning captain Ronan Maher returns to the matchday panel for the first time this year, though Robert Doyle remains sidelined with a hamstring injury. Brian McGrath (ankle) and Michael Breen (calf) are also still recovering.
Limerick, meanwhile, have made six changes to the side that defeated Kilkenny. Kyle Hayes is set to make his seasonal debut after recovering from a serious neck injury sustained last August. Darragh O’Donovan also returns, alongside Colin Coughlan, Aidan O’Connor, and Shane O’Brien. Seán Finn, Barry Nash, Diarmaid Byrnes, captain Cian Lynch, David Reidy, and Hugh Flanagan make way.
Tipperary’s Home Advantage and Recent Form
Since the back-to-back Munster Championship losses to Cork and Clare in 2024, Tipperary has enjoyed an impressive six-game unbeaten run at FBD Semple Stadium. Liam Cahill has prioritized establishing the stadium as a formidable home ground for the Premier County.
Limerick’s Dominance and Tipperary’s Challenge
Tipperary faces a significant challenge in overcoming Limerick, a team that has consistently held the upper hand in recent years. Since a league semi-final victory in 2018, Tipperary has only beaten Limerick twice in seventeen competitive games. These victories came in 2019 – a Munster League encounter and a round-robin championship match where Limerick rested key players.
Beyond the Hurling Field: Limerick’s Centre of Excellence
Off the field, Limerick GAA has received conditional planning permission for a new centre of excellence in Crecora. The 95-acre site will feature six floodlit natural grass pitches and an all-weather surface, representing a significant investment in the future of Limerick hurling.
Dublin Championship Updates
In football news, Con O’Callaghan has been confirmed as the Dublin senior football captain for 2026, with Eoin Murchan as his vice-captain. Chris Crummey will continue to captain the Dublin senior hurlers, with Paddy Smyth as his deputy.
FAQ
Q: When and where is the Tipperary vs. Limerick match?
A: Saturday, February 21st, at FBD Semple Stadium, with a 5:30pm throw-in.
Q: How many changes has Tipperary made to their starting team?
A: Five changes have been made to the Tipperary starting lineup.
Q: Is Kyle Hayes fit to play for Limerick?
A: Yes, Kyle Hayes is set to make his seasonal debut for Limerick after recovering from a neck injury.
Q: What is the recent record between Tipperary and Limerick?
A: Limerick has dominated the recent encounters, winning twelve of the last seventeen competitive games against Tipperary.
Did you grasp? Kyle Hayes was hospitalized with a neck injury and concussion after a high tackle in August, highlighting the physical demands of the sport.
Pro Tip: Retain an eye on the impact of Ronan Maher returning to the Tipperary panel – his leadership could be crucial.
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