GAA
While the outcome was far more comfortable, the result was the same as was in last year’s county final.
Kilmallock kickstarted the defence of their Limerick SHC title in style with a dominant 2-23 to 2-9 win over Patrickswell in Newcastle West on Saturday.
In a repeat of last year’s final, Kilmallock started slowly but thundered into the game with the result beyond doubt midway through the second period.
Goals from Thomas O’Brien and Jordan Higgins had Patrickswell 2-2 to 0-2 clear before the Balbec kicked into gear.
Points from Oisin O’Reilly, Conor Hanley Clarke and Shane O’Brien steadied the ship as they took a three point lead into the break.
O’Brien, on his senior debut, then found the net with a cracking strike before Hanley Clarke ended any doubt with a fine finish.
A brilliant display to kick start the year for the champions while Patrickswell must try to regroup as they face Ahane.
Kilmallock take on Na Piarsaigh this weekend in a game that will be streamed live on Limerick GAA TV.