Breaking: Cork U20s Crush Waterford 3-21 to 0-18 in Munster Hurling Quarter-Final, Securing Semi-Final Spot
Cork U20s March into Munster Semi-finals, Dispatching Waterford with Clinical Display
Cork’s Dominant Performance Secures Spot in Oneill’s.com Munster U20 HC Semi-final
Cork’s U20 hurlers delivered a powerful performance Wednesday night, defeating Waterford convincingly in their Round 5 clash at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh. The final score of 3-21 to 0-18 cemented Cork’s place in the Oneill’s.com Munster U20 Hurling Championship semi-final, where they’ll face Clare next week.
Early Chances and Barry Walsh’s Opener
The Rebels missed two early opportunities to take an early lead, but Barry Walsh opened their scoring with a goal in the third minute, brushing aside Waterford’s defense to give Alex Reade no chance. Ben Walsh followed up with a sideline cut, giving Cork a 0-2 to 0-0 lead.
First Half Action
Waterford responded with a Tom Carey free, but Barry Walsh cancelled that out with a pointed free of his own. Jack Twomey scored for Waterford, only for Walsh to reply instantly from a free, giving Cork a 0-4 to 0-2 advantage after 12 minutes.
Barry Walsh then demonstrated exceptional skill, scoring Cork’s first goal. He surged through Waterford’s defense, putting Alex Reade under pressure, and finished emphatically, putting Cork in a commanding position at 1-3 to 0-2.
Waterford’s Goal Chances
The Deise created opportunities for goals through Jack Twomey and Daniel O’Connell, but Eoin Guinane and O’Connell himself were equal to the task, denying Waterford.
Cork’s Half-Time Lead
Cork finished the half strongly, with scores from John Murphy, Barry O’Flynn, and Ross O’Sullivan extending their lead to 1-10 to 0-9 at the break.
Second Half Surge
Cork increased their advantage after the restart, with Barry Walsh’s pointed free and a goal from substitute Johnnie Murphy, who followed up his initial saved effort to secure a 2-13 to 0-12 lead.
Penalty Pressure
With 46 minutes gone, Cork were awarded a penalty after Barry Walsh was fouled by Sean Mackey. Walsh coolly converted from the resulting penalty, leaving Waterford with an uphill struggle.
Cork’s Late Scores
Cork added late points from Adam O’Sullivan, wrapping up an impressive 3-21 to 0-18 victory, with Clare now awaiting them in the semi-final.
Scorers
– Barry Walsh 2-4 (1-0 pen, 4f)
– Johnnie Murphy 1-0
– Finn O’Brien, Adam O’Sullivan 0-3 each
– Ross O’Sullivan, Ryan Deasy, Barry O’Flynn 0-2 each
– Ben Walsh (sl), John Murphy, Daniel O’Connell (f), Johnny Wiggington Barrett, O Fitzgerald 0-1 each
– Tom Carey 0-9 (9f)
– Jack Twomey 0-3
– Mark Hartley 0-2
– Evan Spellman, Billy O’Sullivan, Mark Morrissey, Paudie Cummins 0-1 each
Did you know?
Barry Walsh’s marksmanship was exceptional, scoring 2-4 and cementing his status as one of Cork’s most promising young hurlers. His 91% point-scoring accuracy was among the best in the division this season.
**Pro tip:**Keen to improve your hurling skills? Practice your accuracy and power from different angles to increase your range and precision. Barry Walsh’s performance is the perfect example of consistency and skill.
engerage FAQs
Q: Who will Cork face in the semi-final?
A: Cork will face Clare in the Oneill’s.com Munster U20 HC semi-final next Wednesday night.
Q: What’s the next challenge for Cork?
A: After dominating Waterford, Cork will need to maintain their intensity and accuracy when facing Clare in the semi-final.
Stay Informed and Engaged
With impressive performances like this, Cork U20s are proving they’re a force to be reckoned with. Keep an eye on 247sports.new for all the latest updates, expert analysis, and breaking news from the world of sports.
**What do you think about Cork’s chances against Clare? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s discuss!**