“We were always waiting for one or two to breakthrough” | Kilmallock’s Oisin O’Reilly heaps praise on young stars

Limerick U20 starts Conor Hanley Clarke and Shane O’Brien were vital for Kilmallock in thier championship opener.

Kilmallock began their defence of the Limerick SHC title with a comfortable win over Patrickswell, winning by 2-23 to 2-9 on Saturday in Newcastle West.

The reigning champions conceded two goals early on, but powered on to reduce the deficit and get into a healthy lead during the second half.

The side’s two goals came from young players Conor Hanley Clarke and Shane O’Brien, who was making his senior debut and captain Oisin O’Reilly was full of praise for the two breakthrough stars.

“The lads are great. We were always kind of waiting for one or two to breakthrough, we haven’t really had anyone since David Woulfe and that’s four or five years ago.

“Conor Hanley was there last year and he came on in the county final so I’m delighted for him to be breaking through another bit and sure Shane O’Brien is exceptional isn’t he”.

The pair will be very important for Kilmallock in what looks set to be an exciting championship season, which sees them face favourites Na Piarsaigh in the next round and O’Reilly is looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead.

“We’ll recover tomorrow, we might try and get a stretching session or a pool session and look, Na Piarsaigh are a great team, there’s no doubt about that but we’re looking forward to a challenge.”

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Kilmallock take on Na Piarsaigh in the second round of the Limerick SHC this Saturday in a game that will be streamed live!

Watch Kilmallock v Na Piarsaigh