Noel Connors and Pauric Mahony celebrate following Waterford's Allianz Hurling League semi-final win on Sunday.
By Cian O'Connell
Waterford spirit
Perhaps it was only a small statement, but there is no denying the fact that Waterford's win carried importance in Nowlan Park.
The manner of the victory was particularly pleasing for Paraic Fanning's outfit, who showed steel and stamina when required.
Mikey Kearney's sending off came at a difficult time just as Waterford had clipped two scores narrowing the gap to the minimum.
So when Waterford hit the next five points to bring their unanswered tally to seven it was the reason they advanced to an intriguing decider against Limerick.
In Nowlan Park Waterford's spirit mattered throughout. Even when Galway were motoring smoothly initially Waterford hung on in there.
A slice of good fortune did follow when Stephen Bennett's 33rd minute goal brought hope, but Waterford have demonstrated resilience in their two recent triumphs over Galway.
Accomplished performers are being gradually re-introduced, while the continued development of Calum Lyons and Shane McNulty offers further options in defence.
Fanning is looking forward to facing 'the best team in the country' at GAA headquarters next Sunday. Another interesting test looms.
Seamus Flanagan struck an important goal as Limerick defeated Dublin at Nowlan Park.
Limerick depth
David Dempsey, Seamus Flanagan, Conor Boylan, Mike Casey, and Barry Murphy were the Limerick players introduced during Sunday's win over Dublin.
That was the latest sign of Limerick's much talked about depth as John Kiely's outfit did enough to fend off a determined Dublin challenge.
How Kiely managed Limerick during a thrilling 2018 adventure brought promotion and subsequently All Ireland glory.
Challenges existed throughout the campaign, but Limerick dealt with most of them. Na Piarsaigh's players were integrated back into the fold following a successful Division 1B assault, while Limerick's response to a Munster Championship loss against Clare was impressive.
A sense of calm was kept following an epic All Ireland semi-final triumph over Cork. It was a sensible approach from Kiely, who acknowledged that many valuable lessons were learned in 2017.
On Sunday afternoon when Paul Kinnerk and Kiely quietly pulled into the Nowlan Park car park it was a scene far removed from chaotic summer days, but Limerick are embracing being All Ireland champions.
There is no doubt that a driven collection of players, used to success on the underage, Post Primary, and third level fields want to keep the green and white flag perched on the summit of the hurling world.
Danny Sutcliffe impressed for Dublin against Limerick at Nowlan Park.
Dublin's development
Moral victories don't carry much currency for Dublin anymore, but the Allianz Hurling League must be classed as a success for Dublin.
A tepid display against Galway aside Dublin have competed well in every other fixture. Waterford and Tipperary were beaten by Dublin, who certainly tested Limerick's resolve.
It was unfortunate for Dublin to endure so many injury enforced departures in the first half, but they kept battling on.
Finding excuses wasn't on the agenda. When Mattie Kenny, Greg Kennedy, Paul O'Brien, and Eoin Roche reflect on the League campaign they will take plenty of positives.
Danny Sutcliffe and Eamon Dillon are recapturing the dash demonstrated previously. Both scored three from play against Limerick which is no mean feat.
Further back the pitch Eoghan O'Donnell, Paddy Smyth, and Sean Moran remain key figures, while the versatile Darragh O'Connell can operate smartly in a number of roles.
Chris Crummey and Shane Barrett are crafty operators also so Dublin will head for the summer optimistic.
Three narrow defeats were suffered in Leinster last year, but Dublin appear to be making progress.
The promising Brian Concannon is viewed as an exciting prospect in Galway.
Galway have afforded players opportunities
Injuries and club commitments always meant that it was going to be a League in which Galway afforded emerging players opportunities.
Seven competitive matches have been played by Micheal Donoghue's team since the end of January and the Clarinbridge clubman has delved deep into his panel.
Kevin Hussey's effectiveness will have been noted, while Brian Concannon supplied flashes of his vision and skill also.
It will be interesting to monitor the coming weeks and months as Galway prepare for the Leinster Championship.
Oranmore-Maree, St Thomas', and Daithi Burke's involvement with Corofin restricted Donoghue's options in the spring, but youngsters were given valuable game time.
"Our agenda at the start of the League was see if we could find a few players so we are happy enough now going away now in terms of our Championship preparation," Donoghue remarked in Nowlan Park on Sunday.
Joe Canning remains an influential and inspiring figure for Galway, who have shown admirable Championship consistency under Donoghue.
Being ready for the May to August stint is the objective and Galway should be primed for then.
