Relief was the overriding emotion John Kiely was feeling after Limerick came from behind to edge out Clare in a pulsating All-Ireland SHC semi-final.

Despite being far from their best, the Treatymen found a way to win thanks to an unanswered 1-5 down the home stretch, which was capped by Aidan O'Connor's 70th minute goal.

"It's just relief, huge relief; pride - that took great courage," the Limerick manager told the media at Croke Park.

"Clare brought an incredible challenge today and huge energy. We reset at half-time and the boys were committed to giving it their all. Another huge question asked in the middle of that second half and the response from our guys was phenomenal.

"It was such an example of resilience and never-say-die attitude, plus composure in that final quarter."

Kiely singled out captain Cian Lynch for special praise after his impressive cameo after injury had ruled him out of the starting line-up.

"The impact off our bench was tremendous," Kiely continued.

"Cian didn't start as had a knock the last couple of weeks, but he gave us great leadership, composure and a great presence in the tight situations by winning dirty ball, recycling, retaining, carrying and won an important free in the middle of the field.

"From our whole group's perspective, it was very positive in terms of character and never say die attitude.

"From our execution point of view, we have work to do on our puck out, shooting and getting our passing game going."

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