Life under John Meyler has not started overly well for Cork's hurlers.
With three defeats from four in this year's National League, next week's trip to Thurles to face Tipperary may prove decisive in determining Cork's future in Division 1A.
For Derek McGrath and Waterford, this afternoon's 1-20 to 1-15 win was their first of the campaign. Although the league has scarcely appeared a priority for last year's losing All-Ireland finalists, another win against Clare next week could see them preserve their top flight status for another year yet; although a relegation play-off between both Cork and Waterford is looking possible.
One man who is looking likely to miss such a fixture is Cork's Séamus Harnedy. Dismissed after 25 minutes for a straight red-card, he will not now play any part in Cork's crucial game against Tipperary.
Having fared well despite Harnedy's absence, Cork never really got going in front of a sparsely populated Páirc Uí Chaoimh. With Patrick Horgan keeping them in check through his nine converted frees, Waterford's Pauric Mahoney was equally adept at keeping McGrath's man in contention.
With seven further Deise hurlers contributing also, Cork's far narrower spread of hurlers demonstrated their reliance upon Horgan's influence; the Glen Rovers man contributing 1-10 overall.
That being said, this Tim O'Mahoney effort was special indeed.
Cork's Centre Back Tim O'Mahony with a fantastic score! pic.twitter.com/yEwyS0uUpH
— The GAA (@officialgaa) February 25, 2018
Waterford's Tadhg de Búrca was one of those demonstrating his side's exemplary effort at finding space wherever possible.
Tadhg de Búrca making some ground and seals a point for his side! pic.twitter.com/L275XYCHP4
— The GAA (@officialgaa) February 25, 2018
See Also: Cian O'Neill Hammers Referee Over 'Disgraceful' Gum Shield Sending Off In Kildare Game
