GAA: Limerick defeat Cork in dramatic Munster final

Michael Bolton

Limerick are Munster champions as they defeated Cork 1-21 to 2-17 in the final at Páirc Uí Chaoimh.

Mark Coleman scored Cork's first goal from the penalty spot in the seventh minute to give the Rebels a three-point lead.

Limerick struck right back when Gearoid Hegarty rose highest and fired it past Patrick Collins in the 15th minute.

Playing with the wind in the first half, Cork took a two-point lead into the interval, with Tim O'Mahony, William Buckley and Alan Connolly helping them take the lead into the interval.

Points from Shane O'Brien and Aidan O'Connor helped keep Limerick in touch.

Cork got off to the perfect start in the second half, as they had their second goal through Brian Hayes, as Limerick were able to keep within a score of the Rebels at all times.

They had goalkeeper Nickie Quiad to thank for that, who pulled off some brilliant saves throughout.

O'Connor had a chance to bring Limerick to within one point, with nine minutes to go, but put the free wide in what was a tense finish at Páirc Uí Chaoimh.

However, Limerick held their nerve, and Peter Casey put them in front with a point in the 70th minute.

The drama did not stop in added time, as Cork were level through Connolly moments later, before Limerick's lead was restored through Casey.

Cork had the chance to equalise in the final moments, but Limerick held on for a dramatic victory.

Limerick will advance to the All-Ireland semi-finals, while Cork will face Offaly in the quarter-finals.

The Dublin ladies got off to a winning start in round one of the All-Ireland Football Championship.

Goals from Kate Sullivan and two from Niamh Heherton helped Paul Casey's side to a 3-12 to 0-12 win over Mayo in Castlebar in group 3.

In group 2, Kerry have beaten Tipperary 2-16 to 4 points at Austin Stack Park.

Siofra O'Shea and Anna Galvin finding the net.

Meanwhile, there was a delayed start in Navan, due to the pitch not being lined in time for throw-in.

Galway came from behind to win 2-21 to 1-09.

Roisin Leonard and Eva Noone contributed with goals there.