Peter Queally Admitted Waterford were “probably unlucky” not to come away with more from Ennis, after a dramatic Munster Championship clash saw Clare edge a high-scoring encounter.

The Déise boss pointed to key moments late on, including a big save from Éibhear Quilligan, as turning points in a game Waterford could easily have taken something from.

Despite the disappointment, Queally was quick to shift focus to what lies ahead, with a crucial home clash against Tipperary next on the schedule.

“We’re disappointed, but we just have to dust ourselves off now and get ready for next week,” he said. “It’s a huge game at home.”

Queally reserved special praise for returning star Austin Gleeson, highlighting his immediate impact after coming into the game.

“He was busy from the minute he came on. His striking, his vision, his leadership — it was a great contribution in fairness to him.”

The Waterford manager also paid tribute to Man of the Match Stephen Bennett, whose incredible tally and relentless work rate once again underlined his importance to the side.

“You can’t overstate what he brings. It’s not even just the scores — it’s his physical presence, his work rate. He’s an absolute warrior,” Queally said.

“If people knew what he puts his body through to go out and perform like that, they’d appreciate him even more. He’s an incredible player.”

Goalkeeper Billy Nolan also earned high praise, with Queally describing him as “colossal” after a series of crucial saves and strong puck-out delivery.

Looking ahead, Queally believes Waterford must improve their scoring spread to support Bennett and convert more of their attacking chances.

“We created plenty of goal chances, which is a positive, but we probably need a bit more help for Stephen in terms of scores from play,” he said.

“We need more flow in our play, more shots, and better execution when we get into those positions.”

In a championship now defined by high-scoring encounters, Queally acknowledged that all-out attacking hurling is becoming the norm.

“That’s probably the way the game is going. It’s what people want to see, and it makes for a great spectacle.”

While frustrated not to get a result, Queally insists Waterford remain fully focused, with no time to dwell as the championship quickly rolls on.

“That’s the nature of it — whether you win or lose, you dust yourself off and go again. We’ll be ready.”

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