Dublin and Clare Seek to End Provincial Drought in Hurling Finals

Dublin and Clare are gearing up for a significant weekend in the hurling world as they aim to end their long wait for provincial silverware. Dublin faces Kilkenny in the Leinster final, while Clare takes on Limerick in the Munster final. Both matches are highly anticipated, with Dublin seeking their first Leinster title since 2013 and Clare aiming to lift the Munster trophy for the first time since 1998.

Dublin's running game could pose a challenge for Kilkenny, as evidenced in their previous round-robin encounter. Dónal Burke's three points from his dropped-off centre-forward position forced Kilkenny's Paddy Deegan to pay closer attention, creating gaps in the Kilkenny defense. Dublin's puckout strategy, led by Seán Brennan, was also effective, scoring 1-10 from their own puckouts.

However, Dublin needs to address the impact of Kilkenny's half-forward line, particularly John Donnelly, who scored 0-7 and assisted 0-1 in their last meeting. Dublin also needs to refine their defensive strategy, having been turned over 12 times in their own defensive half during the previous game.

Clare faces a familiar foe in Limerick, with the two teams meeting in their third consecutive Munster final. Clare will need to overcome their final-quarter collapse in their group game against Limerick, where Limerick tightened their defensive shape and shut down deliveries to Shane O'Donnell. Clare's puckout strategy will be vital, as they struggled to retain possession in the final quarter of their previous encounter.

The GAA has announced the referees for the upcoming finals. Thomas Walsh from Waterford will officiate the Leinster final between Dublin and Kilkenny at Croke Park on Saturday, June 8, while Colm Lyons from Cork will referee the Munster final between Clare and Limerick at FBD Semple Stadium on Sunday, June 9.

In terms of injuries, Kilkenny might be without John Donnelly, who is a major doubt with a hand injury, and Mikey Carey, who is struggling with an ankle issue. Dublin's Cian O'Sullivan is likely to miss the Leinster final as a result of a hamstring injury. Limerick's Seamus Flanagan and Seán Finn are also doubtful for the Munster final, while Clare's David McInerney has been absent with a groin strain.

The Leinster final is expected to be a tight and competitive encounter, with Kilkenny's recent provincial dominance making them the favorites. However, Dublin's recent form and narrow defeat to Kilkenny in their last meeting suggest that they have a chance to end their long wait for provincial silverware. Similarly, Clare will be hoping to break their Munster final losing streak against Limerick and secure their first title since 1998.

Key Takeaways

• Dublin faces Kilkenny in Leinster final, seeking first title since 2013.
• Clare takes on Limerick in Munster final, aiming for first title since 1998.
• Dublin's running game and puckout strategy pose threats to Kilkenny.
• Clare must overcome final-quarter collapse and refine puckout strategy.
• Injury concerns for Kilkenny's John Donnelly and Dublin's Cian O'Sullivan.