Waterford manager Davy Fitzgerald says his side should still be involved in the All-Ireland series, following yesterday's Munster Hurling Championship exit.
Two goals in either half from Shane Bennett gave Waterford hope going into the final quarter - but Limerick hit 11 of the last 14 points to speed out of sight and on to another provincial decider.
Limerick march on to the Munster Final to face Clare while Cork take the third qualification spot as Waterford were left to rue missed opportunities in earlier games.
The Deise drew with Tipperary having led by four late on, while they were also denied a point by a late '65 in Ennis.
Fitzgerald said they should have qualified before yesterday, and also commented on his future..
“100%, we should be through. If you take the three matches, I felt we were right there as regards any of them. I thought we were right there and we showed that. It's just disappointing for the lads because they've come on leaps and bounds, and we definitely made a lot of progress.”
The All-Ireland winner offered this response when quizzed on his future:
“Ah, all I got to do now is go home and take a breather, I'm absolutely shattered. But the one thing I'm proud of is I know that we're right back up there in touching distance so we are, with most of them. The last 10 minutes today isn't a reflection of what this Waterford team has been like in the championship. I do think it's an injustice that we're out of it and I'm disappointed.”
For the latest Waterford News and Sport, tune into WLR News on the hour and download the WLR App for news on demand.
