Our Big Match is brought to you by  George Corbett Motors SKODA

Paudie Hunt says Rathgormack will need to be at their best if they are to secure a fourth consecutive Waterford Senior Football Championship title when they face The Nire on Sunday.

The reigning champions meet their long-time rivals at Cappoquin Logistics Fraher Field, with throw-in at 2.30 pm, in a final that promises another closely fought contest.

Speaking to WLR Sport, Rathgormack goalkeeper Hunt says there is little to separate the sides in recent years, with their meetings regularly going down to the wire.

He admits Rathgormack were pushed all the way by Gaultier in the semi-final, but says they were pleased to get through despite not playing their best football throughout the game.

Hunt also praised The Nire’s progress this season, with the club reaching senior county finals in both hurling and football. He believes their fitness and ability to finish games strongly will pose a significant challenge.

“They’re outrageously fit up and down the field,” Hunt said, adding that Rathgormack will have to be mindful of the threat they carry in the closing stages.

Rathgormack have received a boost from the return of Stephen Curry, known as ‘The Gooch’, who made an immediate impact in the semi-final against Gaultier. Hunt praised Curry’s form since returning to action, highlighting his scoring ability and the difficulty opponents face when trying to contain him.

James Power has also returned after spending several weeks away. Hunt says Power quickly found his feet in training and delivered a strong performance against Gaultier.

The Rathgormack goalkeeper believes the standard of Waterford senior football continues to improve, with several clubs capable of challenging for the title. He pointed to the competitive nature of the championship and the number of close games as signs of the progress being made.

Rathgormack’s experience of big occasions could prove important. Today’s game will be their eighth county final in succession, and Hunt says the squad understands what is required after experiencing both the highs of winning and the disappointment of losing three finals in a row earlier in that run.

Rathgormack are now aiming to make it four titles on the bounce, but Hunt knows The Nire will provide a stern test.

Match Details – We’ll have live coverage with Micheál ó Drisleáin & Waterford Senior Football Manager Ephie Fitzgerald, along with full build-up from 2:15, thanks to George Corbett Motors ŠKODA.

Fixture: Rathgormack vs The Nire
Competition: JJ Kavanagh & Sons Waterford Senior Football Championship Final 2026
Throw-in: 2:30 pm
Venue: Cappaquinn Logistics Fraher Field

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