WATERFORD MAY HAVE lost yesterday’s hurling league final replay but the outstanding displays of Jamie Barron and Patrick Curran almost helped the Deise retain their title.
Fouremilewater player Barron was excellent at midfield while Dungarvan forward Curran struck 1-9, further evidence of his brilliant attacking capabilities.
Despite the disappointment of defeat, Waterford boss Derek McGrath was keen to pay tribute to the duo.
Barron’s grandmother passed away last week while the funeral of Curran’s uncle and godfather took place on Saturday.
The Waterford manager also took time to single out Clare selector Louis Mulqueen, whose mother died last week.
“I’m not as down or disappointed as I thought I would be, because I thought there were good aspects of our game today, particularly the displays of Jamie (Barron) and Patrick (Curran),” outlined McGrath.
“It was a difficult week for Louis Mulqueen (Clare selector), losing his mam, difficult week for Jamie losing his grandmother, and Patrick.
“I was at a funeral on Saturday and Patrick was carrying the coffin of his uncle, and to go out and perform like that.
“There was a lot of stuff to put it in perspective on whether you win or lose.”
Waterford selector Dan Shanahan echoed McGrath’s thoughts by pointing out those family losses put their disappointment at the defeat in perspective.
“Sport is sport lads. Jamie Barron lost his grandmother, Paddy Curran lost his godfather and his uncle.
“Louis Mulqueen to his credit lost his mother and he’s here today. That’s great sportsmanship. My condolences go out to the Mulqueen family.”
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Tony Kelly was the difference today to be fair to him he was class
well done Clare ..hon the banner
That’s Phony Kelly done for the summer
@Gary: you said that last week – good one !
@Darren Mullins: I didn’t I’ll have you know
Must have been someone elseb
@Bryan: Incorrect he’s a flake and doesn’t turn up when it matters most
I’d take Duggan over him every day of the week
@Gary: good man Gary ya legend.
In fairness Tony Kelly has gone missing in some big games with county and club over the last few years. In full flight he’s an absolute pleasure to watch. But consistency of performance has become a bit of an issue, especially on big days. And these bigger days tend to be when the opposition deem him worthy of legitimate and appropriate special attention. In other words,he can on occasion be marked out of it.
@Gary: He’s a superstar in January, February and March every year.
@Gary: gowl of a young lad. What did you score today
@John kane: Imagine calling someone a gowl and then assuming I’m the young lad
@Gary: imagine there’s no gowls….it’s easy if you try..
@Gary: Eat your words ya cl0wn!
Well done Clare. Not easy to get a good result in Wexford, even more difficult with 14 men.
As for Tony Kelly; Are there many other players in the country, Gaelic Football or Hurling included, who have won young player and player of the year in the same year, All-Ireland, league and Munster club honours? I dont think so. So, to all the Trolls, go back under the bridge and wallow in your swamp life.