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Anthony Daly: Waterford's need for glory was smeared all over commanding performance

It was obvious how badly Waterford needed an All-Ireland.

Mon, 30 Jun, 2025 - 09:23

Two‑time All‑Ireland–winning captain and former Dublin and Clare manager, Anthony Daly, is a much-respected pundit and columnist as well as ringmaster in chief on the hugely-popular Dalo’s Hurling Show.

When James O’Connor was interviewed on TG4 by Micheál Ó Domhnaill after Waterford beat Kilkenny in the All-Ireland minor semi-final two weeks ago, the manager spoke about how much Waterford needed that victory, especially after another disappointing season for the Waterford seniors and U20s, and particularly with the county’s desperate track record at underage since they’d won the All-Ireland U21 title in 2016.

It was obvious from the tone of James’s interview how badly Waterford needed an All-Ireland. And that desire, savage hunger and commitment to return a Waterford team to the big stage was smeared all over Saturday's performance. Waterford really did need this All-Ireland. And they deserve massive credit for how they went to Thurles and just grabbed it with both hands.

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