Clare drive forward as Déise dream dies

THANK YOU and goodbye. Waterford’s fanatical fairytale romp through the All-Ireland SHC was tripped up at Croke Park by a Clare team which had broken the mould of hurling hierarchy throughout the late 90s and yesterday proved that their days of magic-making remain in plentiful supply.

As Clare were embraced by the nation after shaking off Biddy Earley’s course seven years ago, so it was for the Déise in 2002. The county has been enveloped by hurling fever since the Munster final win over All-Ireland champions Tipperary six weeks ago. These were the new poster boys of the hurling championship.

But Clare were not willing to be covered over, just yet.