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John Kiely expressed his dismay following Limerick’s unexpected defeat to Kilkenny in the Allianz Hurling League semi-final.
The reigning All-Ireland champions, aiming for a historic fifth consecutive title, delivered what many considered their subpar performance under Kiely’s tenure, succumbing to a 1-15 to 3-17 loss at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh on Saturday.
WATCH: FULL-TIME HIGHLIGHTS! 🚨📺
Kilkenny book their spot in the Allianz Hurling League Division 1 final!
FT Score:@KilkennyCLG 3-17@LimerickCLG 1-15
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— The GAA (@officialgaa) March 23, 2024
In addressing reporters, Kiely candidly admitted, “Our performance today was embarrassing at times.” He lamented the manner in which they exited the league, emphasizing, “This is not us exiting the League on our terms. This is us being kicked out of the league on Kilkenny’s terms.”
Reflecting on the team’s display, Kiely remarked, “I don’t think we have played as bad as that before to be honest with you. It’s probably 2017 being honest about it.” He acknowledged Kilkenny’s strategic approach, acknowledging their intent, well-executed plan, and adept ball-handling skills, which stood in stark contrast to Limerick’s performance.
“We were poor on the ball, we were poor in defence, we were poor at the things we usually pride ourselves in,” Kiely noted. He emphasized the team’s deficiencies in intensity, work-rate, ball usage, and efficiency, aspects they typically excel in. Kiely emphasized, “I can assure you we’re not happy to be out of the league. It’s not part of any grand plan I can assure you.”
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