WATCH: John Kiely praises Limerick supporters “I can’t thank them enough”

Immediately after Limerick’s thrilling All-Ireland semi-final win, manager John Kiely was quick to ask to supporters and media alike to give his players the space and respect they deserve as they prepare for a first All Ireland final since 2007. Kiely, however, followed this plea with a message of gratitude as he applauded the Limerick faithful for their support in Croke Park yesterday.

To be fair the supporters have been absolutely fantastic. They have given us great space and they will over the next couple of weeks… Outside there, what you saw, thats the supporters job. For two hours, they lifted the roof, it was phenomenal. It lifted the team so much at vital times, it was immense.”

“I can’t thank them enough.”

With the sides deadlocked after 70 minute, Kiely says the experience of playing extra time a couple of times this year really stood to his players. He was adamant that his side had what it takes to come away with victory and was delighted to see the game pan out as it did.

“We were confident in the dressing room. We jut needed to get organised and get out there and at it. We weathered an early storm for the first five minutes and then we got into our rhythm and took our chances.”

“I’m just so so proud of the players. That six point lead with ten minutes to go is a fair challenge and they dug deep.”

Goalkeeper Nickie Quiad was also singled out for his unbelievable block on Seamus Harnedy. With the Corkman with the goal at his mercy, the Effin man made an amazing leap to flick the ball of Harnedy’s hurley away from danger.

“It was incredible wasn’t it, just incredible. I don’t know how he got around to it and got a touch on the ball.”

See the full interview with Kiely on our YouTube channel below.