By Cian O'Connell

In March Kyle Hayes really sensed that something was stirring in Limerick.

With the Liam MacCarthy Cup captured for the first time since 1973 Hayes stressed the importance of the Allianz Hurling League Division 1B win for Limerick against Galway at Pearse Stadium.

What was the moment when Limerick felt that there was something extra in the current panel? "Funny enough the first time we played Galway above in Salthill we gained promotion to Division 1A," Hayes reflected. 

"I think we were seven or eight points behind at half-time that day. To comeback against the All Ireland champs above in their own home venue things like that you know there is something special in the group."

Even when Galway were pouring forward in the closing stages as the Tribesmen trimmed down a nine point deficit Hayes believed in Limerick's composure.

"I wouldn't say panic, I would always trust the fella next to you to make something happen," Kyle added. "Thankfully we got to grips near the end, but there for 10 minutes in fairness to Galway they absolutely demolished us. 

"They showed us what they could do, we knew they were going to get a purple patch like that at some stage. The last 10 minutes it wasn't ideal.

"I always thought once we gained a lead, that we always have that energy, we finish strong in games. I was banking on that to come in at some stage."

Limerick set the agenda early on, but Hayes was unperturbed that the Treatymen squandered opportunities.

"No obviously you are disappointed they weren't going over, but the plus side of that is you are getting opportunities," Hayes remarked. "You are having them chances and you know something will break your way, thankfully we got a few goals as well." Those three majors ultimately proved critical.