Limerick cruised to victory in this first-round clash at Ballyheigue last evening. Limerick, inspired by Damien Moloney, were on top in every sector and led by 14 points at half-time.

Limerick had jumped 0-6 to 0-1 clear after the opening quarter with points from Brian O'Sullivan, Michael Noonan, David Moloney and Cathal Mullane and a 65 from John Kelly. Limerick struck for two goals from O'Sullivan, in the 24th and 28th minutes. The game turned into a turkey shoot in the second half as Limerick sent on all their substitutes and all the forwards got in on the act, goals following from Mullane and Gavin O'Mahony.

LIMERICK: M Fitzgerald; Denis Moloney, D Gardiner, S Hickey; J Kelly (0-2, 65s), Damien Moloney, W McNamara; L O'Dwyer, D Hanley; David Moloney (0-3), M Noonan (0-5, 2 frees), B O'Sullivan (2-4); E Ryan, A Brennan (0-3), C Mullane (1-4). Subs: J Butler for Denis Moloney; T O'Donoghue for Mullane; G O'Mahony (1-0) for Ryan; D O'Neill for Hickey; J Ryan (0-3) for Brennan.

KERRY: M Dineen; P Barrett, M Quilter, JM Pierce; P Bowler, J O'Connor, D Walsh; Kieran Dineen, D Dineen (0-2, frees); R Galvin, M Griffin, K Dineen; A Dineen, J Hussey, E Egan. Subs: P Fitzmaurice for Griffin; F Keane for Egan.

Referee: Ger Hoey (Clare).