LIMERICK booked their place in the All-Ireland hurling final after beating Cork in a thrilling semi-final, but there was a fiery battle taking place on social media at the same time.
The Treaty County sealed their first final in 11 years after an extra-time win over Cork, having trailed by six points 10 minutes from the end of normal time.
Limerick’s fire crew also emerged victorious on social media, having traded barbs with their Cork counterparts during the game.
The Cork crew threw down the gauntlet with a cheeky tweet ahead of throw-in, predicting ‘blood and bandages’ for Limerick.
Big match today for “the Rebels” no chance of a “Treaty" being signed with the “Shannonsiders” of @LimerickFire Different game this time as ye won't be playing any 's.
We will have the “blood and bandages” waiting for you! #Coraighabu #hurling #corkgaa #corkvslimerick pic.twitter.com/RLUKo98Gg4— Cork City Fire Brigade (@CorkCityFire) 29 July 2018
The Limerick lads hit back though with a pun-tastic response.
Put a Cork in it lads. Rebels without a Claus. Enjoy the match...Bai
— Limerick Fire (@LimerickFire) 29 July 2018
The Cork fire fighter’s early arrogance appeared well founded, but as Limerick ate away at their lead, the Rebels appeared nervous, adopting a less partisan tone.
Nail biting stuff lads!
— Cork City Fire Brigade (@CorkCityFire) 29 July 2018
It was nip and tuck, but two quick-fire goals from Shane Dowling and Pat Ryan five minutes from the end of extra time secured a 3-32 to 2-31 victory for Limerick.
The Cork fire fighters appeared to take it well. Sort of.
Well done lads Great game!! pic.twitter.com/N0yFR00uqt
— Cork City Fire Brigade (@CorkCityFire) 29 July 2018
It remains to be seen if they’ll back Limerick in the final though.
Thanks lads! Great game. A hard fight, wish us luck for the Final. #gaa #greatgame
— Limerick Fire (@LimerickFire) 29 July 2018
Limerick will face either Galway or Clare in the final, who meet again next Sunday after Saturday's first semi-final finished 1-30 apiece after extra time.