The key match-ups in Limerick's crunch Munster hurling clash with Cork

THERE is a huge amount at stake for both Limerick and Cork in Saturday's Munster SHC round robin fixture at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh. 

A win would see Limerick qualify for the All-Ireland series, while a loss would end the Rebels prospects of advancing in the 2024 hurling championship.

Leader Sport's Paul Shaughnessy picks five crucial match-ups in Saturday's big game.

DAN MORRISSEY vs ALAN CONNOLLY

MORRISSEY has arguably been one of Limerick’s most consistent players throughout the championship and the Ahane clubman has looked safe and assured under the high ball.

The 2023 All-star has really made the full back position his own over the last couple of years. Alan Connolly has been one of the biggest positives for Cork where the Rebels’ full-forward has scored 1-6 in the last two games. This is sure to be an old-school battle with whoever comes out on top in the air likely to win this match-up.

BARRY NASH vs PATRICK HORGAN

NASH is likely to be given the task of trying to limit the influence of Cork sharpshooter Patrick Horgan. Barry Nash offers just as much defensively as going forward and the corner back’s use of the ball is what makes him such a difficult opponent.

The South Liberties clubman will try to get Horgan chasing back towards his own goal. Horgan has scored 2-17 in the Munster championship and stopping him will go a long way to winning this game.

WILLIAM O’DONOGHUE vs DARRAGH FITZGIBBON

O’DONOGHUE is a vital cog in this Limerick set-up particularly with the physicality and intensity he shows in the tackle to create turnovers. Darragh Fitzgibbon likes to get forward at any stage he can and there’s no doubt John Kiely will give William O’Donoghue the task of stopping Fitzgibbon.

GEAROID HEGARTY vs ROBERT DOWNEY

In the past, Gearoid Hegarty has caused Cork huge problems in recent meetings. Hegarty’s ability to move in and out of the forward line will give Cork plenty to think about. Will Downey follow him? Once Hegarty gets into his flow winning the ball in the air, getting on the scoreboard or creating scores, it’s a very hard task for any team to limit the physical wing forward’s influence.

AARON GILLANE vs EOIN DOWNEY

Stopping Aaron Gillane is easier said than done. Gillane has been in sensational form and has really built on last year where he won hurler of the year. The big question for full backs is whether you mark Aaron Gillane from the front or behind, he can win the ball anyway high or low and for Cork it will be about stopping the ball being delivered from the middle third.