Cork energy serves culture shock to McGrath’s Déise

The concern in Cork prior to Sunday’s game was that Waterford, unlike Tipp, would adopt a tough, tight approach, cutting down Rebel space up front, strangling the game.

This never materialised. Waterford dispensed with their defensive system, going 15v15 in a disappointing display, where they were well below their best. This allowed Cork to play to their strengths.

There was lots of space up front. Kieran Kingston’s team were full of enthusiasm, endeavour, pace and power, with each defender dominating his opponent throughout the second half.