Limerick learn McGrath Cup opponents as 2023 fixtures are revealed

Limerick will be under new management for the first time since 2017 as Ray Dempsey makes his debut with the Shannonsiders.

The draw for the 2023 McGrath Cup has been made with Limerick’s opponents revealed. Ray Dempsey’s side will take on Waterford and Tipperary with Cork, Kerry and Clare on the opposite side of the draw.

Dempsey will lead Limerick for the first time on Wednesday, January 4th as they host Waterford. They will be on their travels ten days later when they face Tipperary.

Limerick are in group B with the winners progressing to face the table toppers in group A on the January 18th decider.

Last year, Limerick as defedning champions were beaten in both of their contests, firstly by Kerry in Tralee before falling to Tipperary in Rathkeale.

However, Billy Lee’s men responded in style as they earned promotion from Division 3 before reaching a first Munster final in twelve years in May.

In 2020, Limerick were crowned champions after beating Waterford and Clare before besting Cork in the Gaelic Grounds decider.

The Waterford clash will come just three months shy of Dempsey’s appointment as Limerick senior football manager as he replaces Billy Lee who stepped down after six seasons in charge.

Dempsey, who guided his native Knockmore to successive Mayo senior titles, revealed his backroom team in November which included Anthony Maher, Eoin Joy, Mark Fitzgerald, John Chawke, Martin Barrett and Michael Downey.

Limerick begin their National Football League Division 2 campaign with a trip to last year’s All-Ireland finalists Derry in late January. The Shannonsiders will also have Dublin, Kildare, Cork, Clare, Louth and Meath for company in the second tier of the league.

Limerick’s 2023 McGrath Cup Fixtures

Limerick v Waterford, Wednesday January 4th in Limerick

Tipperary v Limerick, Saturday January 14th in Tipperary

Final, Wednesday January 18th