The manager of the Éire Óg hurlers is hailing the strength of the opposition as they came up short in their attempts to capture the Munster crown. The Waterford cemented themseleves as the kingpins of Munster hurling with a 0-21 to 1-9 win over the Clare champions to claim their fifth provincial title in seven years. The Townies attempted to rally late with a Danny Russel goal from a penalty, while a reflex save from former All Star, Stephen O'Keefe denied them a second. Éire Óg boss, Gerry O'Connor says, while he was pleased not to concede goals, they couldn't cope with Ballygunner's scoring power in the middle third.