Top three place at stake in Semple showdown as Bennett is record bound
Stephen Bennett has record in sight.
Stephen Bennett can become Waterford’s all-time top scorer in championship hurling on Sunday. The Ballysaggart forward only needs three points to overtake Paul Flynn.
Bennett is currently on 11 goals and 218 points from 43 games. According to hurling statistician Leo McGough, Flynn scored 24-181 in 46 matches for the Déise. That leaves the Ballygunner great just two points clear at present.
That record won’t cross Bennett’s mind, however, as a top-three finish and a ticket to the All-Ireland series is the prize on offer to the winner in Thurles. As he said recently, Waterford are fed of being finished in May. This is their opportunity to break out of Munster.
Easier said than done as Tipperary have their tails up after coming away from the cauldron of Cusack Park with a three-point victory. Liam Cahill’s men led by twelve towards the end of the first half but had to win the game all over again when Clare drew level with eight minutes left.
John McGrath looks rejuvenated this summer. The Loughmore-Castleiney man only made two substitute appearances in the 2024 championship but has scored 4-4 in three starts this season. 2-3 last Saturday earned him the man of the match award. He could have netted a hat trick. When Clare roared back into contention, McGrath hit a late point and then won a close range free. His battle with Conor Prunty on the edge of the square will be crucial.
Cahill gave Andrew Ormond a surprise start and he repaid that faith with 2-1. Another leader of the Tipp attack Jake Morris has contributed nine points from play. Tipp carry a significant goal threat but Waterford seem better equipped defensively than an injury hit Clare.
Noel McGrath also earned an unexpected start but wasn’t as effective as when he came on against Limerick. It would be no surprise to see Darragh McCarthy return after serving his one-match suspension. Ronan Maher put the shackles on Peter Duggan. He may shadow Stephen Bennett this weekend.
Expect at least one change on the Waterford team. After a two-week lay-off, Michael Kiely should be ready to give 70 minutes. He added much needed muscle to the attack when introduced against Limerick. Patrick Curran may be the player to make way. Patrick Fitzgerald should get another chance up front. He was unlucky to substituted at the break last time out after getting a limited supply. Shane Bennett will also be in Peter Queally’s thoughts with Kevin Mahony most at risk. Peter Hogan is back in the mix after recovering from the hamstring injury he picked up against Offaly. His energy and link-up play will prove useful from the start or from the bench.
Mark Fitzgerald was Waterford’s standout performer in the Limerick loss. He kept driving forward in the second half. Jamie Barron also excelled in defeat. 20 points from play for the three-time All Star in 2025 across league and championship. The break will reenergise midfield pair Darragh Lyons and Jack Prendergast who must bring their Clare form to this one. Waterford also need a big game from Dessie Hutchinson. The captain could have Michael Breen for company.
Waterford must match the physicality Tipperary brought against Limerick and Clare. The Premier weren’t afraid to foul when the Banner threatened a goal. An eight day turnaround is hard on the hosts. A fresher away team to trouble the Tipp backs with their pace and shade another Munster blockbuster.
