Pauric Mahony's free-taking a huge loss to Waterford, former captain says

The loss of captain Mahony to a knee injury is a considerable blow going into the Munster semi-final with an expert marksman Patrick Horgan in opposition

Pauric Mahony of Ballygunner takes a free during the AIB Munster GAA Hurling Senior Club Championship Final match between Na Piarsaigh and Ballygunner. Picture: Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

Former Waterford captain Shane “Shiner” Ahearne is worried the Déise will miss Pauric Mahony’s free-taking abilities against Cork on Saturday.

Having seen Limerick’s Aaron Gillane shoot nine frees and a 65 in Thurles on Sunday and Donal Burke fire over 11 frees and two 65s for Dublin in Croke Park the day before, Ahearne believes their performances have underlined the importance of the free-taker.