Limerick have been crowned All-Ireland Senior Hurling champions after a dominant 1-29 to 1-18 victory over Galway.

John Kiely’s side produced a relentless performance at Croke Park, hunting in packs and keeping Galway under constant pressure throughout the contest.

Limerick led by five points at half-time, 0-13 to 0-08, with Gearóid Hegarty, Aaron Gillane and Cian Lynch among those making a major impact. Galway struggled to create scores from play, with Aaron Niland carrying much of their attacking responsibility from placed balls.

The second half saw Limerick pull clear.

Cathal O’Neill struck a crucial goal in the 43rd minute, firing past Darach Fahy to stretch the Limerick advantage to nine points. Peter Casey then added to Galway’s problems as the Treaty men continued to turn over possession and punish every mistake.

Galway did manage to find some scores through Tom Monaghan, Cathal Mannion and Aaron Niland, but Limerick’s intensity never dropped.

The situation became even more difficult for Micheál Donoghue’s side when Ronan Glennon was shown a red card in the 58th minute following a head-high challenge on Peter Casey.

Limerick continued to dominate thereafter, with Aaron Gillane producing another outstanding score from an acute angle. At the same time, Diarmaid Byrnes, Kyle Hayes, Cian Lynch and Gearóid Hegarty all added to the winning margin.

Galway were eventually awarded a late penalty, which Conor Cooney converted in stoppage time, but it was little more than consolation.

Limerick’s performance was built on their relentless work rate, defensive pressure and ability to turn Galway turnovers into scores. They were in control for long periods and showed the hunger and quality required to claim another All-Ireland title.

The final score was Limerick 1-29, Galway 1-18

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