As the evenings stretch out and pitches turn to the sharp green of early summer, Waterford’s senior men’s championship ambitions have already come to an end. Still, the county’s hopes of national success remain very much alive through its camogie and ladies’ football teams.

While the hurlers and footballers face into a long off-season of reflection, Waterford’s women’s teams still have plenty to play for as the All-Ireland series gathers momentum.

The greatest sense of frustration undoubtedly surrounds the senior hurlers. Once again, Waterford failed to emerge from the brutal Munster Championship round-robin stage despite producing a series of competitive displays against the province’s elite. The Déise found themselves on the wrong side of fine margins throughout the campaign and were ultimately left outside the top three places for another year. Supporters were left wondering what might have been after a season in which Waterford remained competitive in every outing but lacked the consistency needed to survive one of the toughest championships in Irish sport.

There was no shortage of effort or commitment from the squad, and many observers felt Waterford’s performances deserved greater reward. Manager Peter Queally hailed his side’s efforts this season but the inability to convert strong spells into victories again proved costly. Their opening clash with the Banner in Ennis was there for the taking, but the hosts had that extra gear late on to take the spoils. A late Kevin Mahony goal secured their one and only point from the campaign against Tipperary in what was a thrilling encounter. Cork were up next, but the 2025 Munster champions had too much for the Déise, eventually running out four-point victors. Lastly, a trip to Limerick brought about a terrific display for 60 minutes, but in the final ten, Waterford were hit by a scoring blitz putting the final nail in their 2026 season. In modern Munster hurling, there is little room for error, and Waterford’s campaign became another example of just how unforgiving the championship structure can be.

The senior footballers also saw their season come to an end after defeat to Sligo in the Tailteann Cup. Having already suffered a 0-15 to 1-7 loss to Tipperary in the Munster Championship, they entered the Tailtean Cup. Waterford needed a victory in Dungarvan to keep their campaign alive, but fell short against a sharper and more clinical Sligo side. The Westerners’ scoring power proved decisive as the visitors recorded a 0-29 to 3-12 victory. The defeat meant Waterford completed the league and championship season with nine losses from nine games and extended a difficult period for the county footballers.

The picture is considerably brighter in the women’s game.

Waterford’s senior camogie side may have fallen just short in the Munster final to Tipperary, but their performances throughout the provincial campaign reinforced their status as one of the leading teams in the country. A one-point preliminary round win over Clare kickstarted their campaign, which was added to with a 5-21 to 0-7 demolition of Kerry in the semi-final. Unfortunately, just like in the league final, silverware evaded their best efforts. Although the provincial title slipped away, the bigger objective remains firmly in sight. Waterford now move into the All-Ireland Championship knowing they possess the talent and belief to challenge deep into the summer. The margins at the highest level are increasingly narrow, and there is little doubt that this group remains capable of competing with any team in the country on its day.

The senior ladies footballers can take similar encouragement despite their narrow 2-9 to 1-11 Munster final defeat to Kerry. Reaching another provincial decider represented another significant step forward for a squad that has steadily developed over recent seasons. Their run to the final showcased their growing confidence that will be vital as the All-Ireland series begins. They began with a 0-17 to 2-9 victory over the Kingdom and followed that with wins over Cork and Tipperary. But the green and gold had the final say to claim this year’s provincial silverware.

Unlike the men’s teams, whose summers have ended prematurely, both women’s panels still have meaningful championship football and camogie ahead of them. Across camogie and ladies’ football there remains genuine hope. Provincial final defeats may sting in the short term, but they have not ended the journey. Instead, they may yet prove to be stepping stones towards something bigger.

The post <strong>A Summer of Opportunity Remains for Waterford’s Women</strong> appeared first on The Munster Express.

There was only one place to be on Thursday of last week – April 30th – and that was at Punchestown for the third day of the five-day National Hunt racing festival at the famed Co. Kildare venue.

Bob Olinger has long been one of the stars of Henry de Bromhead’s Knockeen yard, and the 11-year-old gelding signed off his racing career in the best possible fashion with a battling success in the Grade 1 Ladbrokes Champion Stayers Hurdle over three miles.

A three-time Grade 1 winner at the Cheltenham Festival, Bob Olinger went into the eight-runner contest as the 4/1 second favourite following his third-place finish in the Stayers’ Hurdle at Cheltenham on March 12th. The son of Sholokhov was settled towards the rear by Darragh O’Keeffe before making steady progress approaching the third-last, prompting a murmur of anticipation from the crowd as commentator Jerry Hannan noted his forward move.

The favourite Teahupoo led after the third-last, but Bob Olinger had him firmly in his sights approaching the final two flights. The Waterford-trained runner hit the front at the last and, showing trademark bravery, stayed on strongly to win by three-quarters of a length from Jimmy Du Seuil, with Teahupoo a further three and a half lengths back in third.

De Bromhead, speaking over the public address system before his charge returned to the winner’s enclosure, remarked: “It was as if ‘Bob’ had read the script.” It was later confirmed that the Robcour-owned gelding would be retired immediately, and he was given a well-deserved lap of honour around the parade ring by groom Jason Dunphy.

It proved to be an excellent afternoon for Déise-trained horses, as Cappagh handler Declan Queally also enjoyed success with Adaboy Mushy in the JP & M Doyle (C & G) INH Flat Race.

A thrilling finish saw five horses spread across the track entering the final furlong, but the patiently ridden four-year-old Adaboy Mushy finished strongest of all, powering clear inside the final 50 yards under talented 7lb claimer Barry Stone to beat Bon Bon Fizz by half a length. The son of Blue Bresil, who won a Leopardstown bumper on debut in March, is now likely to be given time off before being aimed at novice hurdles next season.

Kilmacow native Donagh Meyler was also among the winners, teaming up with owner-trainer-breeder Eddie Cawley to land the €75,000 Frontline Security Handicap Chase aboard Come Walk With Me. The 136-rated gelding, sent off the well-supported 4/1 favourite, travelled strongly throughout and asserted from two out before powering clear to beat Jalila Moriviere by eight lengths.

Darragh O’Keeffe enjoyed a memorable day, describing it as the best of his career as he completed a treble. He began aboard the Ted Walsh-trained Adrienne in the €40,000 Close Brothers Irish EBF Mares’ Novice Hurdle, with the four-year-old, owned and bred by Helen Walsh, leading before the last and staying on well to defeat Alliteration by four and a half lengths.

O’Keeffe then secured victory in Ireland’s longest race, the Mongey Communications La Touche Cup Chase, guiding the Enda Bolger-trained Busselton to success. A winner of the race 12 months earlier when trained by Joseph O’Brien, Busselton stayed on strongly from two out to deny Outside The Door by three-quarters of a length.

Henry de Bromhead enjoyed further success during the week, beginning with Nouvotic, ridden by O’Keeffe, in Wednesday’s €100,000 Colm Quinn BMW Handicap Chase. The seven-year-old made all the running on his return from a six-month break to comfortably beat Conyers Hill by 10 lengths.

Nouvotic runs in the colours of Roger Brookhouse, who was also present to see another de Bromhead-trained winner in Crystasia. The British-bred five-year-old, a son of Crystal Ocean, made every yard of the running to land the Sebden Steel (Pro-Am) INH Flat Race on Saturday, scoring by an emphatic 12 lengths from Working Class Hero.

The post Fairytale Farewell for Bob Olinger Highlights Punchestown Festival appeared first on The Munster Express.

Tramore AFC 4
Dungarvan United 0

Tramore AFC produced a stylish and accomplished display to overcome Dungarvan United at Graun Park on Wednesday evening.

While the visitors battled gamely throughout, the hosts held the upper hand for long periods and showed their class in front of goal.

Dungarvan goalkeeper Liam Wilmott was called into action early, producing a fine save from Jayden Connolly after just two minutes. However, he was beaten moments later when Connolly controlled an excellent pass from Charlie Reynolds before finishing with a superb volley.

Reynolds – son of former Waterford FC star and current Bohemians manager Alan Reynolds – was heavily involved in Tramore’s attacking play. Alongside Connolly and Nathan Pierarad, he combined brilliantly midway through the half, though Wilmott once again denied Pierarad with a full-length diving save.

Tramore continued to press, and Shane Fitzpatrick, who impressed at left full-back, came close with a powerful strike late in the first half.

The home side doubled their lead 16 minutes after the restart. Adam Hogan delivered an inviting cross from the left, and Bryan Campbell finished confidently to the net.

Just two minutes later, Hogan was again the creator, weaving his way down the flank before delivering a pinpoint cross that Connolly met with a well-timed header for his second goal of the game.

Dungarvan had a chance to respond shortly afterwards, but Ryan Guiry fired wide from a promising position.

With five minutes remaining, the visitors were awarded a penalty, but Archie Crotty’s effort from the spot drifted wide, compounding a frustrating evening for the away side.

Tramore completed the scoring in stoppage time when Connolly turned provider, delivering a cross that Nathan O’Sullivan powered home with a strong header.

Tramore AFC

Noah Curran; Shane Fitzpatrick, Nathan Pierarad, Eoin Fitzsimons, Andrew Wardrop; Jayden Connolly, Harry Dillon, Nathan O’Sullivan; Harry Ridgard, Dylan Barry, Adam Hogan.
Subs used: Charlie Reynolds, Bryan Campbell, Logan Hamilton.

Dungarvan United

Liam Wilmott; Conan Hallahan, Harry Drea, Archie Crotty, Rory Kiely; Daniel O’Mahony, Tomás Ó Droma, Finlidh Ó Hullacháin; Joey Sheehan, Henry Burke, Ryan Guiry.
Subs used: Jake Jago Corcoran, Rowan Power, Tomás Dalton.

Referee: Jim Kealy

The post Young Seagulls Fly High in Graun Park WSFL Under 12 ‘A’ League – under banner appeared first on The Munster Express.

The opening day of Tramore’s two-day jumps fixture took place on Sunday, with Henry de Bromhead delighting local supporters as Polepatrick landed the Copper Coast Maiden Hurdle over two miles.

The six-year-old, Polepatrick, provided the Knockeen handler with his first winner for Co Derry-based owner/breeder Mrs Tilly Conway. Sent off the 13/8 favourite on the strength of a promising third-place finish on his return in a Clonmel maiden hurdle last month, he justified market confidence in style.

Ridden by Darragh O’Keeffe, Polepatrick was sent to the front three flights from home and was travelling best with a three-length advantage over Sea Eagle when that rival unseated at the final flight. Polepatrick came home 13 lengths clear of Tyson Fury, and further success looks likely in the near future.

Michael Kenneally, who only joined the professional ranks last summer, continued his outstanding campaign by riding a treble on the card.

Kenneally initiated his hat-trick aboard Crohan Lady for Grange, Clonmel-based trainer Liz Lalor in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares’ Maiden Hurdle.

The eight-year-old, a former point-to-pointer owned and bred by James Condon from Goatenbridge, built on her third-place finish off a mark of 100 in a Thurles handicap hurdle in mid-February. She made all from the fifth flight and asserted before the last to beat Nirisque by four lengths. Crohan Lady looks capable of adding to her tally in the coming months.

Kenneally’s second winner came aboard Tedworth, trained by Rathcormac handler ‘Trixie’ Barry, in the Anne Valley Walk Maiden Hurdle.

The six-year-old was well supported in the market, from 12/1 into 9/1, on his return from a six-month break. The son of Sholokhov took up the running two out and, despite a stumble at the last, held on to beat Quietrunsthedon by three-quarters of a length.

Tedworth, purchased at the 2023 Goffs Arkle Sale, is a half-brother to the high-class mare Shecouldbeanything, owned by Waterford’s Michael Hanrahan. Trained by Gordon Elliott, she has won 11 races and earned over €250,000 in prize money, including a third-place finish in this year’s Thyestes Handicap Chase.

Kenneally completed his treble aboard the Ross O’Sullivan-trained Spanish Maid, who justified favouritism in the concluding SETU Students’ Day April 20th Handicap Chase.

The eight-year-old mare, owned by Rory Larkin from Naas, improved on her debut for current connections at Wexford last month. She came from off the pace to lead before the last and stayed on well to beat Courtbrack Boy by two and a half lengths. She is likely to remain in action over the coming months.

O’Sullivan also completed a double on the card, with Danny Gilligan guiding Nuttuno Italia to victory in the Core Bullion Traders Handicap Chase.

The well-backed 9/4 favourite, who had been supported from 10/1 earlier in the day, overcame a slipped saddle on the run-in to get up and deny local trainer John Flavin’s Aclass by a neck in one of the closest finishes of the day. Owned and bred by John Place from Rathcoole, Nuttuno Italia is likely to be given a summer break.

Kilbrin Rocco justified the long journey from trainer Eoin McCarthy’s Athea base by landing the West Waterford Handicap Chase under Gary Noonan.

The seven-year-old returned to the form that saw him win at Clonmel three months ago, taking the lead before two out and digging deep to hold off Torquay Road by a neck for owner/breeder Jim Curtin.

Enda Bolger’s Dont Tell Jack, carrying the familiar JP McManus colours, secured a first career success in the Adare Manor Opportunity Maiden Hurdle under Charlie O’Dwyer.

Backed from 13/2 into 7/4 joint-favourite, the son of Affinisea moved to the front before two out and powered clear to beat Jackmoon by 16 lengths. He is expected to remain in action over the summer months.

The post <strong>Treble Delight for Kenneally on Opening Day at Tramore</strong> appeared first on The Munster Express.

Waterford 0-25

Clare 3-15 

Goals win games, we are often told. Well – not always. Clare, who recently won the Division 1B National Camogie League by beating Dublin at Nowlan Park, scored three goals – two in normal time and one late in extra time at Zimmer Biomet Cusack Park on Saturday – but they still had to settle for second best to a Waterford side that has returned to winning ways following their Division 1A league loss to Galway.

This was a game that remained close throughout, but at the end of over 80 minutes, it was Waterford who emerged to set up a Munster semi-final meeting with Kerry over the May Bank Holiday weekend.

Lorraine Bray opened the scoring in the first minute, but the sides were soon level when Áine O’Loughlin fired over. Máiréad O’Brien edged Waterford back in front with a fine solo run and point after using her catches well along the way.

Lorna McNamara and Niamh Rockett swapped scores before Abby Flynn fired over a brace and Rockett added a free to open up a four-point advantage.

Clare struck for their first goal on 21 minutes. After Abby Flynn was penalised for steps, Clare Hehir sent a long delivery into the full-forward line. Andrea O’Keeffe won possession, took on the defence and fired to the left-hand side of Brianna O’Regan’s net to leave just one point between the sides.

Lorraine Bray extended Waterford’s lead, but three points in five minutes from Lorna McNamara gave Clare the advantage for the first time. However, deep in stoppage time, Ciara Sherlock fired over to leave it level at 0-8 to 1-5 at the break.

If the first half was tight, the second half was equally close. Annie Fitzgerald edged Waterford in front before McNamara levelled. Niamh Rockett and Aoife Anderson traded scores.

Five minutes into the second half, Clare struck their second goal. Ziyann Spillane blocked down a Waterford clearance and the ball broke to McNamara, who struck first time and then guided it over the line to put Clare 2-7 to 0-10 ahead.

Aoife Anderson extended Clare’s advantage, and they then relied on goalkeeper Doireann Murphy to deny Máiréad O’Brien a goal chance.

Points from Rockett, Alannah O’Sullivan and Bevin Bowdren reduced the gap to one. Scores from Andrea O’Keeffe and McNamara, with a Rockett free in between, left Clare 2-10 to 0-14 in front.

Bowdren and Róisín McMahon exchanged points before a brace from Rockett brought the sides level with four minutes remaining. Annie Fitzgerald edged Waterford ahead, but a McNamara free sent the game to extra time.

Ziyann Spillane and Rockett traded early scores in the first period of extra time. Fitzgerald nudged Waterford ahead before Clare needed Niamh Mulqueen to make a crucial goal-line block after Rockett got the better of Murphy. From the resulting 45, the St Anne’s player put Waterford 0-21 to 2-13 in front.

Rockett added two more in the first half of extra time, with Spillane responding, to leave Waterford 0-23 to 2-14 ahead at the change of ends.

Beth Carton extended the lead midway through the second period of extra time, but McNamara replied.

A minute from time, Clare struck for a third goal to level matters. McNamara floated in a free from the left, and Aisling Cooney won possession before firing to the net.

However, Waterford refused to yield. Deep into added time, Róisín Kirwan combined with Alannah O’Sullivan and fired over the winning point for Mick Boland’s side.

Waterford: Brianna O’Regan; Alannah McNulty, Keeley Corbett Barry, Vikki Falconer; Rachael Walsh, Clodagh Carroll, Ciara Sherlock; Orla Hickey, Lorraine Bray; Mairead O’Brien, Beth Carton, Annie Fitzgerald; Abby Flynn, Niamh Rockett, Maggie Gostl.

Subs: Alannah O’Sullivan for Orla Hickey (15); Róisín Kirwan for Abby Flynn (40); Bevin Bowdren for Maggie Gostl (40); Laoise Forrest for Ciara Sherlock (56); Abby Flynn for Mairead O’Brien (72); Sarah Lacey for Annie Fitzgerald (76)

Scorers: Niamh Rockett 0-10; (0-7f; 0-2 ‘45); Annie Fitzgerald 0-3; Abby Flynn, Lorraine Bray, Alannah O’Sullivan, Bevin Bowdren 0-2 each; Máiréad O’Brien, Ciara Sherlock, Beth Carton, Róisín Kirwan 0-1 each.

Clare: Doireann Murphy; Susan Daly, Sinead O’Keeffe, Niamh Mulqueen; Muireann Scanlon, Abby Walsh, Clare Hehir; Róisín McMahon, Danielle Griffin; Ziyan Spillane, Andrea O’Keeffe, Ellen Casey; Lynda Daly, Lorna McNamara, Aine O’Loughlin.

Subs: Aoife Anderson for Susan Daly (13); Caoimhe Carmody for Ellen Casey (43); Maeve Millea for Lynda Daly (51); Aisling Cooney for Aoife Anderson (54); Ciara Grogan for Susan Daly (HT/ET) Ellen Casey for Áine O’Loughlin (HT/ET); Áine O’Loughlin for Sinead O’Keeffe (78)

Scorers: Lorna McNamara 0-8; (0-4f); Áine O’Loughlin, Andrea O’Keeffe 1-1 each; Aisling Cooney 1-0; Aoife Anderson, Ziyan Spillane 0-2 each; Róisín McMahon 0-1.

Referee: Colm Maher (Cork)

The post <strong>Déise Dig Deep to Deny Clare in Extra-Time Epic </strong>Munster Senior Camogie Championship Quarter-Final – under banner appeared first on The Munster Express.

Waterford manager Peter Queally cut a frustrated but proud figure after his side’s narrow defeat to Clare, admitting the game may ultimately have turned on the finest of margins.

‘Yeah, very close,’ he said. ‘We were probably a missed handpass away from maybe getting a draw out of it.’

Queally pointed to Waterford’s late attacking opportunity that broke down as a pivotal moment, with the Déise unable to capitalise on a numerical advantage. ‘We had a two or three-man overlap there and that’s probably the difference in the end,’ admitted Queally.

Despite the disappointment, the Déise boss was quick to credit Clare’s composure in the closing stages. ‘I thought when we put them under pressure in the last 15 minutes, every time we got a score, a goal and a bit of momentum, they came back with some magnificent scores. Their execution was very good in that period.’

In contrast, Queally acknowledged that even after putting up 33 points, Waterford left opportunities behind. ‘One area that we might have let ourselves down a bit was our shooting and our execution. We had a few wides, but some of them were ones we’d expect to score.’

Waterford looked in danger of being cut adrift during a dominant Clare spell in the second half, but rallied strongly with a late surge of goals to get back into contention.

‘In fairness, at that stage, we just kept going and never gave in,’ Queally said. ‘The subs made a difference and brought us back into it. The goal was another big thing for us as well. We were probably unlucky not to get another one or two.’

He also highlighted a crucial late save from Clare goalkeeper Eibhear Quilligan that denied Patrick Curran an equalising goal. ‘Patrick was unlucky – it was a very good save at a crucial stage.’

While the result ultimately went against them, Queally was full of praise for his players’ efforts. ‘Overall, very disappointed, but very proud of the lads and the way they played for the entirety of the game.’

Stephen Bennett’s remarkable tally of 3-12 once again underlined his importance to the side, with Queally emphasising that his influence goes far beyond scoring.

‘I can’t overstate it. It’s not even the scores – it’s his physical presence, his work ethic. He’s an absolute warrior,’ he said. ‘To go out and put in a performance like he did and work as hard as he did – he’s an incredible player.’

Goalkeeper Billy Nolan also came in for special praise after a string of key interventions. ‘He was magnificent during the league and again today. The saves he pulled off were outstanding, and his puck-outs and execution were excellent too. He’s been colossal for us this year.’

Looking ahead to a crucial clash with Tipperary, Queally identified areas for improvement, particularly in open play scoring.

‘We probably need a little bit more help for Stephen when it comes to points from play,’ he said. ‘We need a bit more flow in our play, get more shots away and execute them when we get into those positions.’

Despite the setback, Queally remains focused on the bigger picture as the championship campaign continues with the visit of the reigning All-Ireland champions on Sunday.

‘That’s the nature of championship,’ he said. ‘Whether it’s a win or a loss, you have to dust yourself off and go again. We’ll come back as hard as ever next week.’

The post <strong>Queally Proud Despite Narrow Defeat</strong> appeared first on The Munster Express.

Clare 2-33
Waterford 4-21

Where to start is the question after this pulsating opening game in this season’s Munster Senior Hurling Championship.

Let’s begin with the arithmetic. At Cusack Park, Ennis, we had 60 scores over the 70-odd minutes in front of an attendance of 18,338. We also had 16 wides, shared between Waterford (nine) and Clare (seven). Throw in a man-of-the-match performance from Stephen Bennett, who hit 3-12 which was 64% of his team’s total and still ended up on the losing side. When all the totting up was completed, Clare took the precious two group points with a six-point winning margin.

While the sides were level ten times in the opening half, the flow of the game always felt like Waterford were chasing their hosts, with timely green flags keeping Peter Queally’s men in touch. Two late first-half frees from Mark Rogers sent Clare to the interval leading by the minimum. A dominant third quarter by the Banner helped swell this margin to nine points by the 55th minute. However, further goals and a Déise fightback reduced the margin to just three points in injury time. It required a fine save from Eibhear Quilligan to deny Patrick Curran an equaliser before substitute Shane Meehan finally settled the issue with a last-gasp goal.

For anyone who favours fast and loose hurling, this was Mecca. Stephen Bennett was first on the scoresheet with a pointed free, which was matched by Mark Rogers. Both respective free-takers returned a 100% success rate on a perfect afternoon for hurling in April sunshine. Former Hurlers of the Year Shane O’Donnell and Tony Kelly were soon making an impact, with newcomer Seán Rynne another in saffron and blue to shine.

For Waterford, the opening-half goals were crucial in staying within touching distance. After 10 minutes, when Stephen Bennett’s first goal effort was parried, the rebound somehow made its way back to the Ballysaggart star, who promptly blasted to the net (1-3 to 0-4). The Clare response was immediate, with Tony Kelly, Rogers (free), and a monster point from Diarmuid Ryan all raising white flags.

Another Déise goal arrived on cue to break this momentum. Billy Nolan’s long free was gathered by the gargantuan Seán Walsh. As the Fourmilewater man was grounded in the large parallelogram, referee Shane Hynes arrived on the scene with his arms outstretched. Stephen Bennett calmly dispatched the resulting penalty (2-3 to 0-7) with 17 minutes played.

Predictably, it was the effervescent Tony Kelly with the instant response, pointing on the run before another Mark Rogers free tied things up again. Clare threatened green flags too—Peter Duggan kicked the ball over the crossbar when he really should have found the net. Billy Nolan also produced heroics to deny Mark Rogers a certain goal on 24 minutes.

Dessie Hutchinson, who was largely operating in the half-forward line at this stage, found the space to shoot two fine points of his own. Rogers’ late frees in first-half injury time gave Clare a slender 0-15 to 2-8 half-time lead.

On resumption, a long diagonal delivery from Darragh Lohan allowed Mark Rogers to beat Ian Kenny on the spin, drawing the cover and providing the assist for Peter Duggan to find the net from close range (1-17 to 2-9) with 37 minutes on the clock.

If Clare have an Achilles’ heel, it’s a frailty in dealing with the high ball on their own square. Cathal Malone opted to bat another long ball goalwards, only for the vigilant Stephen Bennett to promptly finish to the net for his and Waterford’s third goal (1-18 to 3-9) on 41 minutes.

Austin Gleeson was then thrown into the fray, pointing a beauty underneath the covered terrace. The score roused the Waterford faithful in attendance; however, it was the Clare players who now appeared inspired. Six points on the bounce from the hosts and Clare were in danger of streaking away (1-27 to 3-12 after 54 minutes). Scores flowed at either end as Clare successfully kept Waterford at arm’s length. A diving Billy Nolan save denied Shane O’Donnell a certain goal before the Ennis man was replaced by Shane Meehan.

Queally’s men, however, were going nowhere. Seán Walsh had a fourth goal following good work by Hutchinson and Calum Lyons, and it was game on again (1-30 to 4-17 after 63 minutes). Substitute Diarmuid Stritch and Darragh Lohan both hit crucial points in the run to the finish to match Stephen Bennett frees.

With just a goal in it in injury time, Quilligan stopped Patrick Curran’s low drive. The referee was already playing advantage, with Bennett pointing, and the margin was just two. As ever from the puck-out, it was Tony Kelly swivelling and bisecting the posts to ignite the Clare roar. When a last-ditch attempt for an equalising goal broke down, Waterford were caught short-handed at the back. Ian Galvin set up a fellow substitute to rifle to the roof of the net. Game, set and match.

This was another case of close but no cigar for Waterford. Stephen Bennett produced one of his all-time great performances, while on another day it might well have been Billy Nolan taking home the crystal. Clare may have the best forward division in the competition, so you could sympathise with the challenge presented.

Calum Lyons did improve matters when switched to half-back in an under-pressure sector. Seán Walsh is quickly becoming a pillar in attack and may have scored another goal in the opening half if the advantage rule had been applied correctly. Dessie Hutchinson scored four fine points, but at times it felt as if the Ballygunner star was on the periphery. Both Peter Hogan and Austin Gleeson made an impact off the bench and may feature from the start this Sunday.

Clare had five star performers in Seán Rynne, Shane O’Donnell, Tony Kelly, Mark Rogers and Diarmuid Ryan.

All roads lead to Walsh Park this Sunday, where Waterford face All-Ireland champions Tipperary at 4pm.

Clare: Eibhear Quilligan; Rory Hayes, Conor Cleary, Adam Hogan; Diarmuid Ryan, Niall O’Farrell, Cathal Malone; Ryan Taylor, Darragh Lohan; Tony Kelly, David Reidy, Seán Rynne; Mark Rogers, Shane O’Donnell, Peter Duggan.
Subs: Diarmuid Stritch for David Reidy (49), Conor Leane for Rory Hayes (57m), Shane Meehan for Shane O’Donnell (62m), Ian Galvin for Seán Rynne (65m), Ronan Gilroy for Adam Hogan (67m).
Scorers: Mark Rogers (0-11, 0-10f, 0-1 ’65), Seán Rynne (0-5), Shane O’Donnell and Tony Kelly (0-4), Peter Duggan (1-1), Diarmuid Stritch (0-3), Shane Meehan (1-0), Diarmuid Ryan and Darragh Lohan (0-2).

Waterford: Billy Nolan; Aaron O’Neill, Mark Fitzgerald, Ian Kenny; Jack Fagan, Paddy Leavey, Shane Bennett; Calum Lyons, Darragh Lyons; Michael Kiely, Jamie Barron, Dessie Hutchinson; Stephen Bennett, Seán Walsh, Jack Prendergast.
Subs: Peter Hogan for Shane Bennett (40m), Austin Gleeson for Michael Kiely (46m), Kevin Mahony for Darragh Lyons (53m), Patrick Curran for Jamie Barron (67m).
Scorers: Stephen Bennett (3-12, 0-12f, 1-0 pen), Dessie Hutchinson (0-4), Seán Walsh (1-0), Jamie Barron and Austin Gleeson (0-2), Peter Hogan (0-1).

Referee: Shane Hynes (Galway)

The post <strong>Close but No Cigar for Waterford</strong> <strong>Munster Senior Hurling Championship – under banner</strong> appeared first on The Munster Express.

Representing 25 clubs from across the county, from Ardmore in the west to Passage in the east, the participants joined forces to raise an incredible €98,000 in support of the charity’s vital services.

The event, which was endorsed by the executive boards of Waterford GAA, Waterford Camogie and Waterford LGFA, was first planned in November last year. Once the date was confirmed, participants quickly signed up and began fundraising.

While nerves were evident during the initial briefing and training, the sense of achievement and joy was clear as each participant completed the challenge.

Waterford hurling legend and Mount Sion clubman Jim Green, who played a major role in recruiting participants, said the event was a way of giving back.

“I saw it as a way of giving back to Solas for the way they looked after myself and my family. The clubs and people who came on board proved the family ethos of the GAA.”

Solas manager Tracy McDaid said the fundraising effort will make a major difference.

“These incredible funds will help us provide services to over 1,300 clients in our centres in Waterford and Dungarvan.”

Among those who took part was WLR Sports Content Manager Seamus Barry, representing Passage GAA.

“The team at Solas looked after me and my family with incredible care and compassion after I lost my mother to cancer last May,” he said.

Solas provides free professional support services for people affected by cancer, their families and carers, including counselling, complementary therapies, yoga, meditation and support for children and adolescents.

Plans are already underway for the next fundraising event in 2027.

The post Waterford Gaelic Games Community raises €98,000 for Solas appeared first on The Munster Express.

ROBYN POWER

It was a historic week for St Anne’s Tennis Club as they hosted two international events from 20–28 March.

More than 200 players, along with their parents, coaches and supporters, descended on the club for the ITF U18 and Tennis Europe U14 tournaments, with St Anne’s becoming the first club in Ireland to achieve the milestone of hosting two competitions of this size simultaneously.

Chairperson of St Anne’s Tennis Club, Mark Sheridan, told The Munster Express that holding both competitions was an enormous organisational undertaking.

“It’s been a huge logistical job for the club, and for the employees of the club – Michelle Kirby, Neil Hanlon and Keith Murphy,” Mr Sheridan said.

“They’ve done a great job with the sporting committee to get it across the line, and it’s fantastic to see international players on the courts here in Waterford.”

Games began early each day throughout the week and ran late into the evening.

Finals in the ITF U18 tournament were held on Friday, 27 March, while the Tennis Europe U14 winners were awarded their trophies following finals on Saturday, 28 March.

Mr Sheridan told this newspaper that although the players are from different countries, they know each other well from competing on the international circuit.

“It’s interesting – a lot of the Irish players meet the Spanish, the Italians and the Belgians when they play in their countries.

“It’s a real circuit that this is part of. We have our competition here this weekend and it’s finishing up, and next week there’s an ITF U18 in Kilkenny.

“So there’ll be players there that have done both events. They’ll be back off to their own home countries – we had people flying out this morning,” he said.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Councillor Seamus Ryan, was in attendance on Friday, 27 March, to award trophies to the U18 winners, along with CEO of Tennis Ireland, Kevin Quinn.

Mayor Ryan said: “I commend all the competitors who have taken part this week, along with their coaches, support teams, parents and spectators.

“I am honoured to join in celebrating such a milestone for both this club and for Irish tennis, with St Anne’s being the first club in Ireland to host two international tennis events in the same week.”

“This wonderful opportunity places both St Anne’s Tennis Club and Waterford itself on the international tennis stage.

“A huge congratulations to the winners and runners-up of this competition. To yourselves, along with the other competitors, I wish you every continued success for the future,” Mayor Ryan added.

It is not the first time that St Anne’s has demonstrated its ability to host international tournaments.

In 2023, the club successfully staged the Tennis Europe U14 competition, which welcomed 100 players from 38 countries, including competitors from Australia.

The club also hosted the ITF U18 tournament in 2025, which involved 120 players from 52 countries, including Europe, the United States and China.

Ireland’s Brody Lee Stafford took the boys’ singles title on Friday and told The Munster Express that he was delighted with the win, adding that his training regime involves four to five hours of practice every day.

Stafford, who plays with Castleknock Tennis Club in Dublin, said he fell in love with the sport when he was six.

Elsewhere in the competition, Ireland’s Maja Trojanowska took the girls’ singles title following a win over the United Kingdom’s Alice Sharp.

It was another victory for Ireland in the U18 boys’ doubles final, with Joseph McLaughlin and Andrew Schwer defeating the Netherlands’ Mats Jutte and Italy’s Federica Sartori.

Alice Sharp and Hanna Augustynska won the girls’ doubles final.

In the U14 finals on Saturday, the Netherlands’ Diane Franssen defeated Ireland’s Aryia Pringle Quinn in a tightly fought three-set girls’ singles final.

Belgium’s Victor Marchal took the boys’ singles title with victory over the UK’s Tomas Gabor.

St Anne’s will now look towards the upcoming Inter-Firms Festival of Tennis, which gets underway on Monday, 4 May 2026.

The festival, which has been running since 1984, is a fortnight of activity, entertainment and social occasions for players and non-players alike.

It is open to groups from businesses, schools, organisations, or any group of two men and two women who wish to take part.

More information can be found by emailing info@stannestennis.com.

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Last week, manager Peter Queally had the opportunity to assess the strength in depth of his panel, with his second string getting a run-out against Wexford in a rearranged challenge game. The much-anticipated return of former Hurler of the Year Austin Gleeson materialised, with the Mount Sion man showing plenty of promise in his 50 minutes or so of game time.

Joe Booth, James Power and Daniel Lalor were others to catch the eye in this low-key encounter. The availability of currently injured players Conor Prunty, Patrick Fitzgerald, Stephen Bennett, Iarlaith Daly and Peter Hogan is also sure to occupy the thoughts of the Waterford bainisteoir. The good news is that April 19th, the date for the trip to Ennis, is still some distance away, so hopefully the majority of the walking wounded will be ready for the opening round of the Munster Senior Hurling Championship.

The first team into the Munster hurling fray is the U20 side, who also travel to Clare (Sixmilebridge) next Wednesday at 7pm for their opening round game. James O’Connor and his management team are now in place for a three-year term, with the aim of building on the success of last season’s All-Ireland-winning minor (U17) team.

There is likely to be considerable change from the minor team of three years ago, with a number of “Joxer’s” young players set to be promoted. James Comerford, Conor Lynch, Hugo Quann and Shane Power are all in contention for starting places, while Bradley Penkert, Tommy Kennedy and Gearóid O’Shea- fresh from their schools’ All-Ireland victories – are also believed to be in the mix. O’Shea, who won the Man of the Match award in St Kieran’s Croke Cup victory on St Patrick’s Day, will surely get the nod for this crucial opener.

The U20s will, of course, include Fenor’s Seán Mackey, who has made such a positive start to his senior inter-county career in this season’s National Hurling League. Mark Hartley, Cathal O’Sullivan, Tom Ahearn (Ballyduff Upper) and David Comerford (St Molleran’s) all featured in the corresponding minor (U17) fixture three years ago and remain central to this U20 panel. Joe McDonnell has also come of age and is likely to man the pivotal centre-back position this Wednesday.

It is interesting to observe the evolution of the panel over the years, with very few remaining from that minor game at Fraher Field in 2023. Given the success of last year’s minor team, it is no surprise that a number of younger panel members are likely to see game time this week and throughout the championship.

It is remarkable that since the U21 All-Ireland win in 2016, Waterford at U20 (and previously U21) level have failed to win a single championship game (with the exception of victories over Kerry). That is not a case of failing to win a title or reach a final, but not securing a single win at this grade. If there are concerns about the depth of the current senior panel, the roots of the issue can be traced back to this barren period at U20 level, particularly in comparison to their Munster rivals.

Progress at U20 level is essential for the future of Waterford hurling, with many of those involved this Wednesday likely to feature at senior level in the near future. The addition of the All-Ireland minor medal winners should strengthen their prospects over the coming weeks.

James O’Connor and his management team will be hoping to lay the foundations for future success once again. Best of luck to all involved.

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Eoin Kenny won his heat in 48.82 seconds, while Ellis McHugh (Ferrybank) finished second in her heat in 57.19. In the semi-finals later that day, Kenny placed second in his race in 48.18 to qualify for Sunday’s final. McHugh narrowly missed out on a place in the final.

Also on Saturday, Callum Hurley (Ferrybank) won his 800 metres heat in 1:55.26 to automatically qualify for Sunday’s final. Luke Savage (Waterford AC) did not progress. Petra Igwe (Ferrybank) and Caoimhe Murphy (Tramore) competed in the 60 metres hurdles but did not advance.

Day Two Success

Day Two of the championships on March 1 began in perfect fashion for Waterford. Kate Veale (West Waterford) claimed her ninth National Indoor 3,000m Walk title, winning comfortably in 13:50.48. Aisling Lane (Mullingar Harriers) was second in 14:07.13, followed by Ciara Wilson (Dundrum South Dublin) in 14:21.79. Méabh O’Connor (Waterford AC) finished ninth of the 16 competitors in 15:58.11.

In the men’s 400m final, Eoin Kenny placed fifth in 50.37, outside his personal best of 48 seconds. Taiwo Aderini (Waterford AC) finished ninth in the long jump with a best effort of 6.29m.

Waterford’s second medal of the championships came courtesy of Callum Hurley, who produced a lifetime best of 1:48.37 to claim silver in the 800 metres final, just behind Cillian Kirwan (Raheny, Dublin), who won in 1:47.68.

Lucy Holmes, formerly of West Waterford and now competing with Dublin City Harriers, won the 1,500 metres in 4:31.10.

Congratulations to all Waterford athletes who competed over the weekend.

FINTAN WALSH

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All-Ireland Club final day is the one all players dream of. While for a long period of time it was the highlight of St Patrick’s Day, in more recent years it has been played out in the depths of winter at the back end of January. Nonetheless, for clubs this day has lost none of its lustre.

When interviewed, players lucky enough to have featured in one will always reference an All-Ireland club final as either their greatest achievement or their biggest disappointment, depending on the result. You might be cynical about the player dripping with senior inter-county medals and All-Stars citing their club title as their greatest achievement. To be fair, when you spend time in the company of these players, you begin to appreciate that the medal won playing beside the kids you grew up with, or on the same team as your brother, cousin or uncle, really matters more.

The Ballygunner Senior Hurling Team. Photos: Noel Browne

For Ballygunner, this Sunday has added meaning. To win a club All-Ireland is really special; few get to experience that feeling. To win a second elevates you to an even higher plane. The names of clubs to have won multiple club All-Irelands are easily recognisable: Ballyhale Shamrocks, Birr, Portumna, Athenry, Blackrock, James Stephens, St Finbarr’s and St Thomas’s of Galway among them all household names. Great clubs with great players: Henry Shefflin, TJ Reid, Brian Whelahan, Joe Canning, Fran Larkin, Eoin Larkin, Jimmy Barry-Murphy and David Burke.

This Sunday, Ballygunner are aiming to join this illustrious list of clubs and players. The twelve-in-a-row Waterford champions have annexed six Munster Club titles, including four from the last five, and an All-Ireland club title in 2022.

Ballygunner have continued to cut through the local championship like a scythe through wheat. The Gunners’ progress to the Munster club stage is the envy of their provincial rivals. Ballygunner’s winning margins in the Waterford championship continue to be comfortably in double-digit territory, with Mount Sion suffering a 22-point hammering in this season’s county final.

Ballygunner’s Munster campaign this year has been their most impressive. Limerick champions Na Piarsaigh, Cork’s Sarsfields and a Shane O’Donnell-led Éire Óg Ennis were all conquered.

St Martin’s, the Wexford champions, provided stiff resistance for around 35 minutes last time out, but the strength in depth of the Waterford title holders ultimately proved the difference. The input of Mark Hartley off the bench was immense and while there is no diminution in the supremacy of Pauric Mahony, here is the heir apparent to his number 11 jersey.

Jason Ryan has taken over the reins at McGinn Park this year and no doubt hopes to emulate the achievements of Darragh O’Sullivan and company back in 2022. Ryan has plenty of big-game experience at Croke Park, having managed both Wexford and Kildare at the Jones Road venue.

Ryan has also largely continued with the existing Ballygunner game plan. If it’s not broken, don’t fix it. The strategy is well rehearsed at this stage. Stephen O’Keeffe is a key instigator of all that is good about Ballygunner. The former All-Star directs traffic with precision and, like Nicky Quaid, is a pivotal proponent of the team process. Philip Mahony will occupy the space in front of Aaron O’Neill, Ian Kenny and Tadhg Foley. Paddy Leavey frequently operates as a second centre-back, with both Harry Ruddle and Ronan Power running the channels in defence and attack. Conor Sheahan is the more attacking of the two in the middle, with both Mikey Mahony and Peter Hogan given the freedom to play either side of the halfway line.

Pauric Mahony will man the ’40’, assessing where the opposition defence is most vulnerable and taking advantage. Inside, Ballygunner have the difference-makers, most notably county stars Dessie Hutchinson and Patrick Fitzgerald in the corners, while Kevin Mahony can operate inside or further out the field if required. Doubts exist around the fitness of Patrick Fitzgerald, but with a supporting cast of Mark Hartley, Conor Tobin, Conor Power and Eoin Cuddihy, there are plenty of options if required.

Since Dessie Hutchinson returned to Ballygunner following his dalliance with soccer, in every championship game he has either been man of the match or firmly in contention – I kid you not. I doubt your local turf accountant will even offer you odds on another Crystal trophy for Dessie this Sunday. Ballygunner may have enough hurlers to field two senior teams, but they have none better than Dessie Hutchinson. Big players win big games.

Ballygunner play a possession-based game which requires a very high level of skill, one generally associated with county teams. Their ability to retain possession and play through the lines until the right opportunity arises before feeding their inside killers is the hallmark of this team. Accuracy in passing and the athleticism required to create overloads around possession set the Waterford kingpins apart.

In American football, it is often said that winning is more about the Jimmys and the Joes than the Xs and Os. A team may have a great system, but it is the players who execute that system who make the difference between winning and losing.

At this stage, winning Waterford and Munster titles is par for Ballygunner. Winning a second All-Ireland club title is the definition of success. More wants more. It takes a great team to win an All-Ireland club. It requires a dynasty to win more than one.

BRIAN FLANNERY
 

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