HOT MEALS AND FUN TIMES FOR ANOTHER TREATY SUCCESS STORY

THERE’S a fear that tonight will be a bit ‘after the Lord Mayor’s show’ for Limerick footballers. Having written themselves into GAA history as the first side to win a senior Championship game on penalties, it might be hard to find motivation for a mundane Munster semi-final against Tipperary. But Billy Lee (below) has been quietly doing one of the best coaching jobs in inter-county football over the past few years and he is unlikely to allow any slump to happen. Away from the bright lights, Lee has impressively constructed a team who are getting the most out of themselves. It’s not easy being a footballer in the county, especially when the hurlers are ruling the roost. But Lee has been a forceful voice for his players, championing their cause. Following a defeat by Clare back in 2018, the manager railed against the county board for not providing hot meals after one training session. And when Limerick were in the depths of Division 4, Lee was determined to ensure that the training was fun for his players. That in itself engendered a sense of togetherness that was clear for all to see in how they clung to Clare the last day out. And the fun element has remained, even after Limerick have reached the rarefied air of Division 2. Iain Corbett recently revealed that their manager was convinced by his players to come to the nightclub as they celebrated that landmark win over Clare. Limerick footballers look like they are enjoying playing for their county — and their manager. That sense of fun and togetherness might help propel them into a first Munster final since 2010.