DEREK MCGRATH’S WATERFORD took a major leap forward in their hurling evolution yesterday with victory over Clare in the Munster senior semi-final.
Leading the charge was Mount Sion colossus Austin Gleeson, still only 20 years of age.
He shot six points for the Déise, five from play and a sublime second half sideline cut that eased Waterford nerves when Clare had cut their lead back to four points.
And Gleeson got the man-of-the-match nod from Anthony Daly and Eddie Brennan on The Sunday Game last night, as Waterford’s memorable day was capped with the individual accolade.
“Overall, Austin Gleeson is a man that has really stepped up. 20 years of age, what a powerhouse he is, he was really the driving force at the end of the game for them,” said Daly.
“He didn’t put a foot out place,” Brennan added.
“He started full-forward, plundered an early score, was involved in the goal.
“When Waterford were under the kibosh and needed a score, he cut over a sideline and gave them the cushion again. He was immense today.”
The other nominees were Gleeson’s team-mates Darragh Fives and captain Kevin Moran, who scored four points from play between them, Moran hitting three.
Do you agree with the panel’s selections? Let us know in the comments section.
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