With a major Munster hurling showdown approaching in Walsh Park, former Waterford hurler Eoin Kelly and ex-Tipperary star John Leahy have weighed in on what could be a season-defining encounter for both sides.
“They can’t concede 2-33 again” – Kelly calls for Waterford response
Two-time All-Star Eoin Kelly believes Waterford must tighten up defensively after a leaky performance in their previous outing.
“They can’t concede 2-33 again. That’s the first thing. They’ll have to tighten up,” he said.
Kelly expects Waterford manager Peter Quigley to make some adjustments, but not a full overhaul of the team.
“I don’t think he’ll change a whole lot, but there will be a couple of personnel changes. What he’ll want is more from the half-back line, midfield, and half-forward line in terms of scoring. At this level, not scoring from those areas isn’t acceptable.”
One of the key talking points is the positioning of Mark Fitzgerald. Kelly was clear in his view that the player is being underused.
“He’s a six. He’s the leader, he’s captain material. I’d have him there all day long, not full-back. It’s a waste of his ability.”
Despite concerns, Kelly believes Walsh Park’s tight pitch could suit Waterford if used correctly.
“You get the ball in high, big men like Sean Welch and Austin Gleeson will cause damage. It’s about winning breaks and taking chances.”
However, he admitted Waterford still lacks a consistent scoring spread beyond Stephen Bennett.
“Take him out of it, and where are the scores coming from? We need midfielders and wing-backs contributing.”
When asked for a prediction, Kelly was honest but conflicted:
“My heart says Waterford, but my head says Tipperary.”
“It’s a knockout game for Tipp” – Leahy expects a response from Tipperary
Former Tipperary hurler John Leahy also believes the match carries huge weight for both sides, describing it as effectively a knockout game for his county.
“Tipperary have to win it. We need a result and an improvement on last week’s performance,” he said.
Leahy pointed to a poor spell in their previous match where Tipp lost control between the 44th and 59th minutes.
“Cork just dominated. That wasn’t good enough from a Tipp perspective.”
He expects a tactical battle, especially around puck-outs and midfield contests.
“We need to win more in the half-forward line. Rhys Shelly will be important on puck-outs, and we need a higher conversion rate.”
Leahy also highlighted key players who must step up, including John McGrath and Jake Morris.
“McGrath is a goal scorer. He needs to be left on long enough to make an impact. And Jake Morris has a big role in winning possession.”
Despite concerns, he expects a tight and tense contest in Walsh Park.
“There’s so much at stake. It has the feel of an All-Ireland knockout game. I just hope the referee lets it flow and we see a proper game of hurling.”
A clash with everything on the line
Both analysts agreed the match carries enormous importance early in the championship season, with Waterford needing a statement win at home and Tipperary looking to bounce back strongly.
With Walsh Park expected to provide a tight, intense atmosphere, both sides face a test of structure, scoring power, and nerve.
As Kelly summed it up:
“Put money on it… It’s going to be Tipperary. But Waterford needs the Victory more.”
We will have live coverage & build-up from 3:30, thanks to George Corbett Skoda
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