Clare dispatch Waterford to book Sam Maguire spot

Clare made it back-to-back Munster finals for the first time since 1937 with a routine 14-point win over Waterford.

The victory, secured with goals from Emmet McMahon and Mark McInerney, also seals their place in the top 16 for the All-Ireland series. The Déise will now play in the Tailteann Cup.

There was a late change on either side. Ikem Ugweru replaced Daniel Walsh for Clare, who also handed first starts of the year to captain Cillian Brennan and Darragh Bohannon. Seán Whelan-Barrett came in for Caolán Mac Craith in a Waterford side which had Liam Fennell and Dermot Ryan available again.

Clare were sufficiently forewarned of the dangers of Fraher Field. Five of their team experienced a shock under-20 defeat to Waterford here three years ago and they were sharp from the start.

A fine Jason Curry punt gave Waterford the first point but Clare quickly took over. They discouraged the underdogs with their efficient use of possession, converting eight of their first nine shots, and their aggressive kick-out press which yielded 1-4 in the first half.

They had seven in a row between the second and 13th minutes, including a goal chance from a misplaced kick-out. Under pressure, Aaron Griffin (0-05) drove it over.

Dermot Coughlan, Bohannon, and McMahon kicked stylish points from all angles. When Whelan-Barrett hit back with a huge score, Ciarán Downes responded with two lovely curlers.

Defenders Robbie McGrath and Ross Browne also came forward to point for the hosts before McMahon killed them off with a rapid-fire 1-01. The goal was well created by corner-back Ronan Lanigan, who assisted 1-02, and finished by the Kildysart dynamo at the second attempt.

There was confusion at half-time as the referee and scoreboard had the tally 1-12 to