Munster MFC Phase One Round One: Waterford 0-13 Clare 0-10
Waterford made their five hour round trip to West Clare worth their time as they secured a deserved victory over their hosts in Quilty.
Middle third dominance was the key factor in the game as the Deise midfield pairing of Theo Meagher and Tomas Walsh, coupled with the work-rate of their half forward line, provided the platform for Dara Gough to prosper as he landed 0-8 over the course of the hour.
The first of his two pointer scores came in the opening minutes, but the first signs of what would become a familiar trend developed once Clare drew level with fine scores from Rian Cotter and Robbie Kelly.
That trend would see Waterford respond immediately to go 0-4 to 0-2 in front before Clare levelled again at 0-4 each after 20 minutes, but some excellent scores from the Deise saw them lead 0-8 to 0-4 at the break with the wind and fog being almost like a third team in Pairc Naomh Mhuire.
It was a much more positive Clare who reemerged for the second half with scores from Liam Keane and Sean O’Callaghan narrowing the margin to 0-8 to 0-7, but four in a row from Waterford effectively quelled any thoughts of Clare turning the scoreboard around.
A brilliant two pointer from O’Callaghan did cut the deficit back to three, but Waterford’s excellent handling ability and fluidity of movement saw them snuff out any late Clare attacks to seal a memorable win in front of a packed stand in Quilty.
Up next for Clare is a trip to Mountcollins on Easter Monday to face a Limerick side who opened their account with victory over Tipperary.
