The optimism around the Déise and the Tribesmen has faded and relegation looms for whoever comes out second best in Salthill showdown
Waterford manager Peter Queally. Photo: Paul Phelan/Sportsfile
When Galway and Waterford met in the 2017 All-Ireland SHC final, their combined timespan without a MacCarthy Cup win stood at 87 years. In a novel final pairing, without one of hurling’s top three for the first time in 21 years, Galway seized the day.
Waterford’s drought at the time was double that of Galway but All-Irelands aren’t won by petition or compassion. Nine years on, the optimism has faded. The prospects of Waterford being crowned All-Ireland champions this year is rated at 25/1 by the bookmakers.