Waterford Under-20 football manager Paul Power believes his side have given themselves a “massive opportunity” as they prepare for a decisive Munster clash with Cork this Wednesday evening.
The Déise travel to Páirc Uí Chaoimh knowing that victory will send them into a Munster final against Kerry, while defeat will end their campaign.
Building Momentum
Waterford arrive into the game on the back of a dramatic 2-14 to 2-13 victory over Clare, a result Power says was built on resilience and belief.
“We gave ourselves this chance,” he said. “That was the goal — to be in a position where it’s all to play for in the final round. Now we have that opportunity in Páirc Uí Chaoimh.”
Despite trailing by six points at half-time, Waterford produced a remarkable second-half comeback, showing what their manager described as a “never-say-die attitude.
A key moment came with a stunning goal from forward Joe — a strike Power acknowledged as “top drawer.”
“We know Joe has that in his locker, and the same with Paddy and others. When we get quality ball into those lads, we have serious firepower inside.”
Resilience Key to Comeback
Waterford’s ability to swing momentum twice in the second half impressed their manager most.
Having fallen further behind after conceding a goal early in the half, the Déise responded with a scoring burst of 2-3 to turn the game around.
“In these games now, momentum can change so quickly,” Power explained. “But the lads stuck to the plan. There was no panic — just belief in what we’ve been working on.”
He also pointed to the evolving nature of the game, with more space inside and fewer sweepers, placing greater emphasis on one-on-one defending and attacking efficiency.
Cork Challenge Looms
Standing in their way now are a confident Cork side, fresh from edging out Kerry in difficult conditions.
Power expects a serious test.
“Cork have pace and power all over the field. Páirc Uí Chaoimh is a big pitch, and they’ll use that. They’ve some excellent players — real danger men —, but we won’t fear them.”
He added that Waterford’s own balance across the pitch gives them confidence.
“We’ve good fielders around the middle, pace inside, and strong defenders. It’s about bringing all of that together now.”
Strength in Depth
One of Waterford’s biggest assets, according to Power, has been their squad depth throughout the campaign.
He revealed that 26 players have featured in the championship so far — a statistic that highlights the trust within the panel.
“It shows the depth we have. The lads coming in are making a real impact, and everyone is ready for whatever role they’re asked to play.”
That depth could prove crucial again on Wednesday night, particularly in a high-intensity game where impact from the bench often makes the difference.
All to Play For
With the group finely poised, the stakes could not be higher. Cork currently sit just ahead, but all scenarios remain possible across the final round of fixtures.
For Power, however, the focus is simple.
“We’ll worry about ourselves. We’ve put in the work to be here — now it’s about delivering.”
A place in a Munster final awaits the winner, and with confidence high in the Waterford camp, the stage is set for a thrilling encounter under the lights in Páirc Uí Chaoimh.
Fixture: Cork vs Waterford
Competition: 2026 Dalata Hotel Group GAA Under 20 Munster Football Championship
Venue: SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh
Time: 7 pm
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