Allen: Division 1B teams are marginalised
Limerick hurling manager John Allen has hit out at the structure of the Allianz Hurling League ahead of their Division 1B final clash with Dublin on Saturday.
Allen feels counties would benefit from a larger top division, and reckons that the current format of six teams in both Divisions 1A and 1B leaves teams in the second tier feeling 'marginalised'.
Although Limerick went through the league phase unbeaten with four wins and a draw, they could still miss out on promotion to Division 1A if they lose to Dublin in the divisional decider at Semple Stadium (throw-in 7pm).
"The way that the league is structured is all wrong - there should be a bigger league with more teams. We are just marginalising teams," Allen told the Limerick Leader.
"We have proved that we are as good as everyone else so I presume it will be a Championship-like game (against Dublin on Saturday night).
"It's very important - you don't underestimate how valuable it is to be playing against the better teams.
"Limerick have shown over the last three years that they are as good as all other teams, but it's unfortunate the way the league is structured."
Allen's selection options have been boosted by the return to full fitness of defender Tom Condon, who is expected to start at corner back against Dublin having recovered from an elbow injury.
The Shannonsiders' team will be announced following training tomorrow night, with a number of players who were rested for the drawn game against Wexford due to come straight back in.
