Limerick keeper Quaid hails clinical forwards All-Ireland display

LIMERICK goalkeeper Nickie Quaid admits that it was a joy to look on as his team-mates hit top speed during their win over Kilkenny at Croke Park in the All-Ireland final.

John Kiely's charges outscored Kilkenny by 21 points to 1-6 in the second half and the legendary shot stopper says it was 'a joy to watch' on as Limerick sent over the scores during their third quarter blitz.

“Peter (Casey) threw over a ball right on the '65 from the touchline under the Hogan Stand,” marvelled Quaid. “When he hits it, you know it's going over. The roar of the crowd tells you that.

“Cathal O'Neill did the exact same from the other side. As did David Reidy. It fills you with confidence and stand a bit taller when these things happen.”

It is Quaid's fifth All-Ireland win in the last six years and describes this golden era as something that you could never have dreamed of.

“All you want to do as a child is play for Limerick and in Croke Park. Win one All-Ireland. To be standing here now having won five..we don't really appreciate it yet.

“Personally, to have my son on the field with me after the game and seeing him running around the place and to have him lift the cup with me, it's incredible. These are memories we have for a lifetime.

“It's a very satisfying feeling when you open the eyes and reailise that you have done what you have set out to do. It's great to be able to enjoy the couple of days and not think about what if's.”

There were times during the win over Kilkenny where things looked bleak enough for Limerick with Paddy Deegan's goal putting the Cats six points to the good. However, Limerick's answer was incredible.

“I won't say it was a flick of a switch but lads realised that it was now or never really. The lads stood up all over the field. Some of the forwards were immense. Peter was unbelievable.

“In fairness, we got on top of their puck-outs, which was a big thing. We had a bit of a breeze with us and started winning ball in our half back line. We started driving forward with it and delivered good ball to the boys inside. They then finished things off for us,” said a proud Quaid on Limerick's end to the game.