Limerick's hurlers will contest the Waterford Crystal Cup final next Sunday after a confidence-boosting 1-14 to 0-13 semi-final win over Clare this afternoon.
The Shannonsiders, who have also accounted for Waterford and Tipperary in the inaugural competition, led 1-08 to 0-04 at half-time at the Gaelic Grounds.
Midfielder Donal O'Grady waded through for a second-minute goal and corner forward Mark Keane chipped in with five first half points.
Clare were living off Diarmuid McMahon frees - midfielder Brian O'Connell hit the only point from play for Anthony Daly's men after 11 minutes.
But a four point burst, inspired by Tony Carmody, helped the visitors pare it back to a 0-11 to 1-11 deficit, 21 minutes into the second half.
Carmody, just back from the All-Stars trip to Singapore, then saw his goal shot saved by Limerick 'keeper Brian Murray with the score at 1-12 to 0-13 in the home side's favour.
Points from Keane and substitute Andrew O'Shaughnessy closed out the win which will see Limerick take on Waterford IT, 1-16 to 2-03 conquerors of UL in the other semi-final, next weekend.
