Donal O'Grady's tactical breakdown: Waterford triumph over Kilkenny a victory for leadership

Waterford hit Kilkenny with a ‘tour de force’ display in the second half. They scored 2-17 (2-16 from play) as Kilkenny were completely outplayed

BREAKAWAY: Waterford’s Darragh Lyons breaks free of the pressure during Saturday’s All-Ireland SHC semi-final win over their neighbours Kilkenny at Croke Park. Picture: Stephen McCarthy, Sportsfile

Saturday night in Croke Park was the classic game of two halves. Waterford’s superb display in the second half was in total contrast to their tentative efforts in the opening period.

Early in the game, they looked unsettled and anxious. Their touch was off, they lacked the interplay and hard running that was a hallmark of their previous performances. Composure, that vital ingredient for success was also absent.