Waterford ready for “hostile” Ennis test

Waterford manager Peter Queally says excitement is building ahead of this Sunday’s Munster Senior Hurling Championship opener against Clare in Cusack Park at 2 PM.

Speaking in Walsh Park during the week, Queally said the buzz of the championship has already taken hold.

“There’s a great sign of championship when people are ringing you looking for tickets,” he said. “The only thing missing is a bit of good weather, but hopefully that comes for the weekend, and we get a real championship feel in Ennis.”

A tough place to go

Waterford face a difficult task on Sunday, with Ennis traditionally a challenging venue for visiting teams.

Queally acknowledged the physical and psychological challenge that comes with the trip.

“It’s a tough place for everyone to go. For some of our lads it’s nearly a three-hour journey up and the same home again,” he said.

“The pitch might be big, but the stands are right on top of you. When Clare gets a run on you, the crowd really gets behind them, and it becomes a hostile environment.”

Focus on the present

Despite Waterford’s struggles in Ennis in recent years, Queally insists there is no focus on past results.

“As regards the record, it’s not something we look back on. We’re only looking ahead.”

He pointed to the nature of the round-robin format, where familiarity between teams is high.

“You’re playing the same teams every year. We’ve had some great battles with Clare. Our record in Walsh Park has been good, and theirs in Ennis has been strong, so it’s a great test for us.”

Championship mindset

Queally also stressed the importance of consistency across the Munster campaign, rather than focusing solely on the opening game.

“This isn’t just about one game. It’s a sequence of four matches in five weeks,” he said.

“It’s important to hit the ground running, but it’s about backing that up with consistent performances.”

Youth and experience

The Waterford boss has been encouraged by the emergence of younger players during the league campaign, including the likes of Charlie Treen, Seán Mackey, and Conor Keane.

“It’s been one of the highlights of the year. Getting game time into those lads at the Division 1 level was huge for their development.”

At the same time, Waterford could be boosted by the return of experienced players, with Jamie Barron and Stephen Bennett among those nearing full fitness.

“We’re hopeful a few of those experienced lads will see game time,” Queally added.

A privilege to compete

Despite the pressure that comes with the Munster Championship, Queally says he views it as an honour.

“It’s a privilege to be involved. There are hurling people around the country who look at Munster with envy — the quality, the intensity, the atmosphere.”

“That’s the way I look at it.”