Waterford boss Peter Queally admitted he was left with “mixed emotions” after his side battled back to earn a dramatic share of the spoils against Tipperary in a gripping Munster Championship clash.

After a disappointing first-half display, Waterford looked like a completely different outfit after the break, producing a stirring comeback that showcased the character and resilience within the panel.

“There’s a lot of mixed emotions,” Queally said after the game. “We didn’t perform in the first half, but the fight and spirit in the second half were very encouraging. I’m very proud of the lads for the way they turned things around.”

Second-half response defines Waterford

Trailing and struggling for rhythm, Waterford regrouped at half-time with only minor tactical tweaks rather than any dramatic dressing room intervention.

“There was very little said,” Queally explained. “Just a few tweaks and a few home truths. The lads were disappointed themselves. Our execution in the first half was very poor – we were only hitting around 43% of our shots, and those wides deflated us.”

What followed was a transformation. Waterford played some of their best hurling of the campaign, dominating large spells and putting themselves in a winning position.

“For 30 minutes in that second half, we played excellent hurling. That’s what this team is about,” he said.

Tipperary show their class

However, the reigning All-Ireland champions showed exactly why they hold that title, responding under pressure with a burst of scores to swing momentum back their way.

“Tipperary reeled off five points when they were under the cosh. That’s what top teams do,” Queally acknowledged.

Yet Waterford refused to buckle. A late goal ensured they came away with something to show for their efforts — a result the manager felt was fully deserved.

“It would have been heartbreaking to get nothing out of that game. The lads never dropped their heads and kept going right to the end.”

Impact from the bench

Queally was also keen to highlight the contribution of his substitutes, who injected energy and quality at key moments.

“The bench made a huge difference. Kevin coming on before half-time was immense — for a 19-year-old in his first Munster Championship match, the work he got through was incredible.”

Experienced players also stepped up when it mattered most, with leaders across the pitch helping to drive the comeback.

Key performers step up

The performances of key players didn’t go unnoticed either. Stephen Bennett grew into the game as it progressed, showcasing his scoring ability and composure under pressure.

“There’s an element with Stevie where he just gets better as the game goes on,” Queally said. “What he can do is phenomenal.”

Midfield changes also proved decisive, with Jamie Barron playing a major role in swinging momentum.

“He’s a brilliant, experienced player. Things didn’t go well for him early on, but the way he turned it around says everything about him.”

Focus turns to Cork

Attention now quickly shifts to a crucial clash with Cork, who arrive in strong form after victory over Limerick.

Waterford know that consistency will be key if they are to stay competitive in the Munster Championship.

“We need to repeat that second-half performance for the full game,” Queally stressed. “We can’t afford to stand off teams as we did early on. There’s a lot of work to be done over the next couple of weeks.”

Still all to play for

Despite the frustration of not claiming a win, Queally remains optimistic about his side’s prospects.

“We would have loved the two points, but we’re still in this championship,” he said. “If we can produce what we did in the second half, we can live with anyone.”

For now, it’s a case of regrouping, refining, and preparing for what promises to be another huge test — with Waterford’s spirit and resilience very much intact.

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