Shankey hails fabulous Waterford after diabolical start against Tipperary in Munster SFC quarter-final

Waterford football manager Paul Shankey was full of praise for the second-half performance his side produced in toppling Tipperary in their Munster Championship opener, ending the Déise's wait of 14 years for a win in the province.

Victory did not look likely after the opening 35 minutes in Fraher Field, with Waterford, playing with the wind, trailing 1-02 to 0-01. Against the elements the hosts summoned an impressive response, outscoring their opponents 2-06 to 0-03, with full-forward Tom O'Connell netting two goals in what was a five-point victory.

Next up for Shankey's side is a date with Clare in the Munster semi at the Dungarvan venue in two weeks' time.

Speaking to RTÉ's Sunday Sport afterwards, Shankey couldn't help but share his delight as to how things ultimately unfolded in that second period.

"It's a brilliant result result for the team, brilliant result for the group," he said.

"In the first half we were diabolical to put it mildly but it was a fabulous second half, we were a joy to watch. They drove it on right to the end and kept going against the wind. We are just delighted."

The Déise boss went on to say that having the wind at their backs in the opening period was not much of an advantage; it clearly wasn't in that they only scored one point.

"The wind was difficult. Having the wind was not much of an advantage as it was such a swirling wind. We were really flat in the first half in terms of mistakes but in the second half the lads just relaxed and played the style they are able to play.

"We asked them to keep going and competing as best they can. I think playing against the wind nearly suits teams now because the ball can be held up. We knew there would be goal chances and if we got goals we felt we could win