Mahony comeback gives Déise final lift

Waterford sharpshooter Pauric Mahony could be set for a sensational return to inter-county fare for the Munster senior hurling final against Tipperary on July 15.

It was feared as recently as May that Mahony would be ruled out for the entire championship after undergoing surgery on a groin injury. But the talented Ballygunner man has made remarkable progress since then and is back in full training ahead of the decider at Páirc Uí Chaoimh.

Déise sources have hinted that Mahony, 19, may not be fit enough to start but could make an appearance from the substitutes’ bench in Cork.