Preview: Allianz HL D1A and D1B Finals
Mark Rodgers, Clare, Ronan Hayes, Dublin, Niall O'Leary, Cork, and Adam English, Limerick, pictured at TUS Gaelic Grounds ahead of Sunday's Allianz Hurling League Division 1A and 1B Finals. Photo by Sam Barnes/Sportsfile
Sunday April 5
Allianz Hurling League Division 1A Final
Limerick v Cork, TUS Gaelic Grounds, 4pm, TG4
When these counties collide, drama seems inevitable.
The recent history is sprinkled with thrilling encounters, illustrated perfectly by the 2025 Munster SHC Final.
That was a significant success for Cork, but they will be eager to produce a similarly defiant display against John Kiely's outfit.
Following that provincial loss and the subsequent All-Ireland SHC Quarter-Final defeat to Dublin, Limerick entered 2026 loaded with intent.
An opening round reversal away to Waterford was a disappointment, but since then Limerick have flourished with a blend of emerging and established performers.
The guile and experience of Cian Lynch and Aaron Gillane remains, while Adam English's relevance to the Limerick cause shouldn't be underestimated either.
Throughout the campaign, Kiely has afforded young players chances too, striving to ensure the depth of the Limerick panel is sufficient for the gripping Munster battles that await.
Ben O'Connor, passionate as ever, has offered promising young players valuable minutes alongside the marquee names.
Brian Hayes' potent goal threat endures, while Alan Connolly is another classy and accurate attacker.
The Downeys, Mark Coleman, and Darragh Fitzgibbon continue to excel for Cork, who know that a demanding assignment awaits.
When the teams last met early in March, Aidan O'Connor's 1-11 haul and Cathal O'Neill's excellence were key factors as Limerick emerged 3-19 to 0-20 victors.
It should be a lot tighter in the league decider. Few would be surprised if it went the distance. Again.
Allianz Hurling League Division 1B Final
Clare v Dublin, TUS Gaelic Grounds, 1.45pm, TG4
With top tier Division 1A status already secured for 2027, Clare and Dublin will head for TUS Gaelic Grounds heartened.
The first mission of the year has been accomplished, but this is an opportunity to collect silverware now.
Having won the All-Ireland in 2024, Clare endured a difficult campaign last year, but the recent signs are favourable.
Brian Lohan has used the league wisely, affording young talent opportunities to shine and the fact that a six match winning sequence has been stitched together bodes well.
Dublin's stirring 2025 All-Ireland SHC Quarter-Final triumph over Limerick was a considerable achievement, a solid foundation established by Niall Ó Ceallacháin and his management team.
In the league Dublin accumulated nine points from a possible 12, but a superior scoring difference ensure they finished second ahead of Wexford.
Donal Burke remains a capable finisher for Dublin, while John Hetherton has supplied goals too.
At the opposite end of the field, Mark Rodgers has been consistent and sharp for the Banner, who are busy preparing for an intriguing Munster SHC opener against Waterford on April 19.
