When Limerick 37 manager, Mike Kerley, describes a goal as being one of the best he has seen in League Of Ireland football, he must be taken seriously.

That was his reaction to the first of two magnificent strikes by his new star, Garry Sheehan, at Jackman Park on Friday against Kildare County.

It was a memorable occasion in many respects at the venue. Irish American owner Jack McCarthy wanted to celebrate Independence Day while here, and sanctioned a barbecue, which survived a 5pm weather check.

But it was on the pitch that the real sparkle was shown, Kerley’s side recording a home win for the first time since March 28.

But it was not the run of the mill score or two. It was four without replay—the third game in a row in which Limerick have not conceded a goal.

Limerick’s season has been turned around thanks to back-to-back wins away to Dundalk and this latest success.

Kerley gave a vote of confidence to the side that beat Dundalk, and once Tommy Barrett netted a cracking low free after 10 minutes, it was clear that this was going to be a good night for the home side.

Garry Sheehan made it two with his cracking strike. He began a run inside Kildare’s half, rounded three defenders, and then let fly with a thundering shot that left Austin O’Neill helpless.

Dave Ryan made it 3-0 by the interval.

There was another spectacular effort by 20-year-old Sheehan to wrap up a win that sent the small attendance home extremely happy.

Limerick will learn at first hand just what state their game is at when they travel to Tolka Park this weekend to face high flying Shelbourne.

Mike Kerley has been active in bolstering Limerick’s squads. Thirteen players have already been signed and one or two more are likely to follow.

The introduction of several younger players to the League Of Ireland has proved a huge success, with Sheehan, Jason Hughes and Paul Walshe showing great promise.