DOUGH
Dowling annoyed at ‘stupid’ comments about JP
Na Piarsaigh (Lim) v Ballygunner (Wat) Semple Stadium, 2pm (Live on TG4)
And the goal-poaching supersub forward (below) said the reality is that Limerick hurling overall gets no more financial support than ‘some of the perceived weaker counties’.
The Mcmanus family have backed Limerick GAA since 2004 under the Sporting Limerick brand and millionaire JP was present in the Limerick dressingroom following August’s landmark win.
But Dowling, who blasted goals as a sub in the semi-final and final, said their long awaited Maccarthy Cup success was down to talent and guts – and not money.
Dowling said: “We’re very lucky with the support we have down in Limerick but, in reality, every county has a successful businessman, or has a successful sponsor. If you saw the sponsorship Limerick got this year, compared to what some of the perceived weaker counties got, I can guarantee you people would be surprised.
“There wouldn’t be a whole pile of difference. I’ve a fair idea (of the figure). It’s not as if we’re being fired in money left, right and centre. And that is the perception out there.
“Look at the amount of fundraising going on in Limerick now to cover the cost of the team holiday. People think a cheque will be written and that’s the end of it. That’s not going to be the case. We work as hard as everyone else.”
All-ireland final man of the match Kyle Hayes laughed off rumours that Mcmanus had given the players special gifts after the win.
Hayes said he heard one rumour that players got €20,000 lodged into their bank accounts though Dowling said it’s gone beyond a joke at this stage.
The 25-year-old AIB Munster club finalist with Na Piarsaigh today said: “I’ve a pain in my ear from people saying that to me. It’s stupid talk. But listen, that’s what Joe Public are going to say. They want to run with that story and more power to them but it’s obviously not been the case.”
If Na Piarsaigh lose today then Dowling and his club colleagues could be asked to return to action with Limerick in the pre-season Munster hurling league competition next month.
That campaign begins with a Friday night, December 14 fixture against Tipperary – potentially denying the Na Piarsaigh players any off season.
Dowling said: “To me, it sounds crazy. But look, if you’re John Kiely, he sees a value in it. Look at Seamus Flanagan last year, he wouldn’t have been known as a starter but he played the Munster hurling league and hurled well. He got a chance then in the National League and kept his position since.
“I don’t know any hurler who wants to play under lights, that wants to play in freezing cold, snow, hailstones. That’s not what you want.
“But would I rather play Tipperary on the 14th of December or go back to Rathkeale training for two hours? I’ll play the match every day of the week.” Coleraine (Derry) v Scotstown (Monaghan), Healy Park, 1.30pm Gweedore (Donegal) v Crossmaglen (Armagh), Healy Park, 3.30pm – TG4 (live coverage)
Naomh Eanna (Wexford) v Ballyhale Shamrocks (Kilkenny), Innovate Wexford Park, 1.30pm Ballyboden St Endas (Dublin) v Coolderry (Offaly), Parnell Park, 2pm
Na Piarsaigh (Limerick) v Ballygunner (Waterford), Semple Stadium, 2pm – TG4 (live coverage)
Liam Mellows v St Thomas, Pearse Stadium, 2pm