UL survive Waterford scare to set up repeat Fitzgibbon final

There will be a repeat of the 2022 final after UL and University of Galway came through their respective last four ties.

The University of Limerick booked their place in the 2023 Fitzgibbon Final with a hard fought win away to SETU Waterford on Thursday evening.

It sets up a repeat of last year’s final after the University of Galway defeated UCC after extra time following a late fight back in Doora Barefield on the same evening.

It finished 0-19 to 0-16 in UL’s favour as they bid to retain their title for the first time in their history.

Colin Coughlan starred for the Limerick college in their win as he chipped in with a trio of scores from wing back whilst also winning a couple of frees down the home stretch. Those placed balls were duly dispatched by Gearoid O’Connor who finished with 0-12.

Adam English also started for UL at corner forward following an impressive hour against Clare in the National Hurling League second round. Barry Hennessy was between the sticks for Waterford who are managed by Kilmallock Bainsiteoir Fintan O’Connor.

The sides were level throughout the first period before a fine brace from Coughlan and team captain Bryan O’Mara had UL 0-8 to 0-6 clear.

But Waterford’s response was emphatic as they hit back to go three clear with frees from O’Connor ensuring parity at the break, 0-12 apiece. 

Ruben Halloran opened the second half scoring for Waterford but UL replied with five on the trot with Coughlan grabbing a pair. O’Mara put UL in front following a fine double save from Dean Mason.

The All Ireland club winning keeper was then on hand late on to deny the home side from a 21-yard free. Padraig Fitzgerald did make it a two-point game but a free from O’Connor with five to play was the final score of the evening to ensure a repeat final.

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