WATCH: Kilmallock’s Paudie O’Brien expecting “tough challenge” in Adare opener

For Kilmallock and Paudie O’Brien, the disappointment of last years Limerick championship semi-final will still hurt.

The loss is compounded by the fact that the Balbec are without a championship since 2014 having been beating by Na Piarsaigh in a final and two semi-finals as well as a loss to Patrickswell in the semi-final in 2016.

Speaking at the launch of the championship, O’Brien was excited ahead of the new season.

“Even talking to the lads there, it doesn’t be long coming around! It’s a great time of year. A lot of the hard training and hard weather are done so we are looking forward to it now.”

Kilmallock face Adare on Saturday evening in Bruff and will be eager for a good start against an Adare side who were without a win last summer.

However, O’Brien isn’t taking anything for granted against the West side with the likes of Declan Hannon, Mike Mackey and John Fitzgibbon at their disposal.

“Expecting the same you get off them every year and that’s a good tough game. They’re very well organised, a very well coached side. We’re just trying to give our best performance and see what happens.”

See the full interview with O’Brien below.