Three key points from the weekend’s GAA

1. Limerick’s scoring rate needs improving

Three key points from the weekend’s GAA

By Peter McNamara

1. Limerick’s scoring rate needs improving

Davy Fitzgerald and Clare were maddened by the number of frees awarded to TJ Ryan’s side by Leesider Colm Lyons in the Munster SHC quarter-final in Thurles.

Shane Dowling converted 10 of them and also fired over a 65 therefore contributing 0-11 of Limerick’s total of 1-19.

However, the fact Davy Fitz made such a fuss – without directly saying he was annoyed by Lyons’ officiating in a way only Davy Fitz could – actually covered up a glaring issue for the Treaty men on the day.

The reality is Ryan’s outfit registered an uninspiring 1-8 in open play over 70-plus minutes of championship hurling while Clare scored 2-10 as Colin Ryan nailed just five frees.

TJ Ryan needs more from his attackers in open play.

Would even similar figures suffice against Tipperary in the provincial semi-final?

Hardly.

Cian Lynch’s refreshing and confident approach aside, Tipp, on the evidence presented, have little to fear from Limerick’s attack.

2. A Shane O’Donnell-Aaron Cunningham axis?

Hands up any defenders that fancy containing a two-man inside forward line consisting of Shane O’Donnell and Aaron Cunningham?

No takers? Didn’t think so.

Aaron Cunningham could form a deadly partnership with Shane O'Donnell.

Clare could easily dismiss a whole host of opponents in the All-Ireland qualifiers if both of these youngsters are stationed together as the front-line of Davy Fitz’s attack.

O’Donnell managed to register just 0-1 in Semple Stadium but caused Limerick’s full-back line untold problems through his movement and relentless work-ethic.

He has previously proved how ruthless he is when goalscoring opportunities present themselves.

However, the interesting element of O’Donnell’s psychological attitude is that even when the potential to raise a green flag seems virtually non-existent he will attempt to generate a goalscoring chance regardless.

Cunningham’s tally of 2-1 was no fluke to anybody aware of his scoring prowess at U21 level and that duo could guide Clare back into All-Ireland contention.

3. Are Monaghan shy of strength in reserve?

Monaghan will meet either Fermanagh or Antrim in the Ulster SFC semi-final.

With a full deck to choose from, Malachy O’Rourke will deploy a side capable of advancing to the provincial decider.

Colin Walshe was summoned from the subs' bench by Malachy O'Rourke.

However, it was reiterated in Kingspan Breffni Park against Cavan that the Farney Army do not possess the required levels of high-quality artillery to mount an All-Ireland challenge.

Any team with genuine designs on lifting Sam Maguire need at least 22 high-class operators to rely upon on match-days to perform and win by a range of means if necessary.

Yet, were Dick Clerkin and Colin Walshe to be added to their starting line-up for their next assignment – and the latter is almost certain to start – who could O’Rourke reliably call on after those players if other first-choice operators are performing below-par?

Monaghan’s shortage of squad depth may haunt them later on.

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