Lack of sweepers makes U -21 a joy to play for Treaty sharp shooter
AS a dangerous corner-forward, it’s no wonder Limerick’s Peter Casey enjoys being afforded space close to goal, which is why he holds the U-21 grade dear.
The Shannonsiders will look to claim the Bord Gáis Energy Munster U-21 title tomorrow night when Cork visit Limerick’s Gaelic Grounds for a 7.30 throw-in.
Casey feels that the straight knockout format – and absence of defensive systems – are what gives the grade its enduring appeal.
Limerick have beaten Tipperary and Clare by 11 and 13 points respectively to secure a place in the provincial final, a repeat of the counties’ epic 2011 tussle which required extra-time.
Casey, part of a free-scoring attack, enjoys the opportunity for innovation and freedom of creativity.
“I think that’s what makes it so unique,” he says.
“It’s knockout and that’s what makes it so entertaining for the people watching.
“For us playing, there are no sweepers and management probably don’t have too much time with the players, so there’s no real chance to implement systems, you just go out and express yourself. HAMMER “I’m sure the two teams will be going at it hammer and tongs. If you looked at the game yesterday [Waterford v Wexford], anyone in a full-forward line would have hated it. From that point of view, you love it when it’s one-on-one and I’m sure the backs love it as well.
“To be fair to [Wexford boss] Davy Fitzgerald, that’s what some teams have to do in order to compete, there’s nothing wrong with it.”
Casey, about to enter second year of his marketing and management course in Limerick IT, was one of five current U-21s to feature as Limerick exited the senior championship against Kilkenny at the start of July.
That was obviously a blow but the fact that there is a large chunk of the senior panel still together on Pat Donnelly’s U-21 squad means that they benefit from greater time together.
As well as the primary aim of securing silverware, Casey hopes that this year’s U-21 run can also lay the groundwork for next year at senior level.
“From a senior point of view, it didn’t go as well as we would have liked,” he said. “We had two games, losing to Clare and Kilkenny, but we’re a young team and I’ve no doubt we’ll come back stronger next year.
“There are eight or nine lads involved in the senior and U-21 grades so it’s great to have balance between them.
“To be fair to the two managers, they’ve managed it very well and there was nobody in danger of being burnt out. From that point of view, it’s been all positive.”
Three years ago, the Cats were also a thorn in the side of Casey and Limerick. In his first year as a minor, he was part of a Treaty outfit which got to the All-Ireland final, only to fall to Kilkenny in the decider.
Going a step further at U-21 level is obviously the natural aim, but to do that the focus has remained on the task at hand.
“We’d have been very disappointed losing to Kilkenny in Croke Park,” he said. “But we knew that we had a strong team this year and that we’d be able to give it a right crack.
“The management have been very good in ensuring that it genuinely has been one game at a time, Tipperary, Clare and now Cork.
“They’re going for the treble this year in Munster so it’s going to be a massive test, but one we’re all really looking forward to.”
Limerick have been at home for all of their ties thus far, but Casey is reluctant to take too much solace in that, especially as the buzz around Cork hurling is likely to ensure a large travelling support.
“Playing at home is a help, I’m sure Cork would love if they were at home too, but Cork hurling is really on the up.
“There’ll be a huge Cork crowd there I’m sure, especially when they are going for the Munster treble.”