Former Galway All-Ireland winning captain David Burke feels the Tribesmen must make "a good start" against Limerick if they are to win their first title since 2017. While experience will be key, so too will the new generation spearheaded by 19-year-old Jason Rabbitte - man of the match in the semi-final win over Cork - and Aaron Niland.

Manager Henry Donoghue, who guided Galway to their last title, returned last year and has blended youth and experience. Burke notes Donoghue has brought in young players like Cillian Trayers and Cian Daniels, while veterans like Tom Monaghan and Ronan Glennon have stepped up. Donoghue's game-plan clicked in the Leinster final against Dublin and semi-final against Cork, requiring huge energy but creating space for half-forwards like Cathal Mannion.

Match-ups will be crucial, particularly who marks Limerick's Aaron Gillane - Daithi Burke or club-mate Cillian Trayers. Cian Lynch is expected fit and "always seems to play well against Galway," while Gearoid Hegarty has been crucial for Limerick. As underdogs, Burke sees Sunday as a "free hit" for Galway, with pressure on Limerick who haven't won in two years.