Waterford produced one of the results of the Munster Under-20 Football Championship with a dramatic 2-14 to 2-13 victory over Clare GAA in Kilmihil.

The Déise looked in serious trouble when they fell seven points behind in the second half, but showed incredible character to storm back into the contest. An unanswered 2-3 turned the game on its head before Paddy McCarthy held his nerve to slot over the winning free with the final kick of the game, sealing a famous away victory.

Speaking before the game, there was a real sense of belief around the group, something that’s been evident for weeks. In chatting to Paul Power, his confidence in this panel was clear — and performances like this show exactly why. Winning away in Clare at any level is a serious task, particularly in football, but this Waterford side continues to prove they are made of the right stuff.

It’s not just the results either; it’s the manner of them. This team is playing with real style, attacking intent, and composure, while also showing resilience and spirit when it matters most. That blend has been hugely impressive so far this season and suggests there could be more to come.

On the scoreboard, Joe Brennan led the way with 1-3 (including two frees), while McCarthy finished with five points, all from placed balls. David Nyhan struck 1-2 in an influential display, with Aaron Curran adding two points. Ben Qualter and Callum Royle also chipped in with a point each in a well-rounded team performance.

Attention now quickly turns to a massive Phase 2 Round 3 clash with Cork GAA. The sides meet at Páirc Uí Chaoimh on April 22nd at 7 pm, effectively a Munster semi-final, with a place in the provincial decider against Kerry GAA on the line.

If Waterford can replicate the composure, belief, and attacking football shown in Kilmihil, they’ll travel to Cork with every reason to feel they can take another big scalp.

Sport on WLR is brought to you by Auto Boland Ford.

For the latest Waterford News and Sport, tune into WLR News on the hour and download the WLR App for news on demand.