The Waterford senior hurlers defeated the Underdogs 2-22 to 1-8 at the SETU Arena last night in Davy Fitzgerald's first match as new Déise manager.
Kilrossanty attacker Padraig Fitzgerald scored 1-4 from play for the hosts while centre back Gavin Fives also raised a green flag in the second half. Underdogs goalkeeper Philip O'Brien pulled off five fantastic saves.
The Waterford starting fifteen featured seven players with championship experience. Oisín Ó Dunaigh from An Rinn wore the number two shirt for the Underdogs.
The hosts led 12-4 at the break. Jack Prendergast shot four points, Reuben Halloran rifled over three while Calum Lyons and Padraig Fitzgerald got two each.
Cian O'Rourke hit the first point for the Underdogs from a free on 16 minutes. Eric Finn and Shane Lawler also raised white flags. Underdogs number one Philip O'Brien saved from Jack Fagan and Jack Prendergast.
Waterford went fourteen points up in the third quarter. Prendergast added three to his tally while Gavin Fives, Sam Fitzgerald and Padraig Fitzgerald also worked the umpires. On 42 minutes, a low shot from Cian O'Rourke crept under Jack Chester (0-18 to 1-4).
The Underdogs were reduced to fourteen men when Rob O'Donnell received a straight red card. Gavin Fives finally got the better of Philip O'Brien on 46 minutes. Subs Seamus Fitzgerald and Lee Hearne added late points. Padraig Fitzgerald got a brilliant solo goal two minutes from time. The only downer for the Déise was the sight of Micheal Harney being helped off the field in the second half.
