Cork’s last line paves way to victory

Cork 1-18 Waterford 1-13

But the key to snuffing out the persistent challenge from gallant Waterford was the outstanding play of the Cork full-back line. In different circumstances, taking account of the major influence of Seamus Prendergast for Waterford at centre-forward, the result might very well have gone the other way.

Just like in the Tipperary game, when they were pushed harder than might have been anticipated because of their inconsistency, the All-Ireland champions were again seriously tested, this time because of a failure to perform up to standard. Yet, on a day when Waterford did not get enough big-game displays from their key players - Paul Flynn being clearly restricted by his knee injury - it was testament to the character and resourcefulness of John Allen’s team that they passed the test.