Cork lift game and take over

FOR the opening quarter of this hugely disappointing Munster MHC semi-final at Fraher Field, Dungarvan last night, Cork’s provincial title looked to be seriously under threat.

From a Waterford perspective, however, it was the classic case of flattering to deceive, and once Cork settled and took control in the key sectors they steadily ground down the faltering Déise challenge and eventually ran out comprehensive if not entirely convincing winners.

As a spectacle, it was a major let-down, with Waterford never fulfilling the promise of their expectant fans. They began at a frenetic pace, looked to have the measure of the champions in many areas and quickly raced into a 0-3 to 0-1 lead with full-forward Craig Moloney looking particularly sharp.