Munster Express Online

Waterford’s Gráinne Kenneally in action against Limerick in Kilmallock.

Limerick 1-10;   Waterford 1-10

Waterford’s third outing yielded their first point of this year’s campaign. It could so easily have been two, but some wayward shooting proved their undoing. Having surrendered a six-point half-time lead to Galway the previous week and leaving the points behind a positive performance was imperative.

Niamh Mulcahy had an early point for the home team. This was followed by five consecutive scores by Waterford as they dominated possession. Looking secure defensively during this period, the attack moved at pace and some slick passing ensured a healthy five points to one lead midway through the half. Nicola Morrissey’s two points were the result of outstanding teamwork.

However, Limerick, relegated from Division 1 last season, were given a lifeline when defensive hesitancy allowed Orla Curtin score a soft goal. They finished the half stronger as Waterford struggled to regain their composure. The Shannonsiders leading by three points at the break 1-5 to 0-5.

This trend continued on the restart with four unanswered points for Limerick. Slowly the visitors turned the tide and point by point got to within four of the leaders. A long rang free from Áine Lyng dropped fortuitously under the bar on the 55th minute to leave just one between the sides setting up a hectic finale. The same player levelled soon after and victory looked a distinct possibility.

However, Limerick nudged in front again with a further point from Mulcahy on the stroke of time. Stung by last weeks defeat, Waterford attacked again. The ball broke to Karen Kelly on the right hand side and the St. Anne’s player levelled matters.