Watergrasshill pleased to get up and running: Hurling is never perfect, there's always a bit of chaos

Watergrasshill manager Eddie Enright said that getting off to a winning start was the priority as his side opened their Co-Op Superstores SAHC campaign with a 1-23 to 1-17 victory over Ballyhea in Kildorrery on Saturday night.

In a tough group with Blarney and Castlelyons, the Hill needed a strong start to their second campaign at this level.

The recently-promoted side laid down an early marker thanks to Sean Desmond's goal and never relinquished their grip on the contest, although Enright felt his team had to dig deep against experienced opposition.

“It's all about winning today,” Enright said afterwards.

“You never really know where you're at coming into the first round. There was a lot of dry weather, the pitches are hard and the ball is flying around everywhere, so it was a difficult game to navigate.

“Ballyhea have been senior for 10 years or so now and we're only up. 

We knew exactly what they would bring and they brought all that intensity, work-rate and physicality. We had to match that.

“I think we did at times and maybe lost it at times as well, but overall, I thought it was a good performance and we're delighted with the first-round win.”

Watergrasshill's half-back line was particularly influential throughout, with Ryan Loftus, Daire O'Leary and Kevin O'Neill helping to steady matters whenever Ballyhea threatened a comeback.

Enright singled out debutant Loftus for special praise after an eye-catching display.

“He's new and it was his first start, his debut, so we're delighted for Ryan,” the manager said. “He's been tracking really well over the last year or two and tonight he got his chance. Hopefully there's plenty more to come from him.”

Another key moment arrived before half-time when Watergrasshill goalkeeper Aiden Foley produced an important save just as Ballyhea were beginning to build momentum.

The save helped preserve Watergrasshill's advantage before a couple of late scores ensured they went in with a healthy lead at the interval.

“It was a crucial save, absolutely,” Enright said.

“Momentum is a big thing. They got a couple of points before half-time and suddenly it was down to three points and we knew we were in a real game and a battle.

“We probably missed a few chances ourselves and weren't as clinical as we can be, so there are lots of things to work on. But that save was definitely a big moment.”

Embrace the chaos

Despite the six-point winning margin, Enright believes there is plenty of room for improvement as Watergrasshill prepare for their second group outing.

“Hurling is never perfect,” he said.

“There's always a bit of chaos in it. We try to bring some structure so the players can flourish, but it's chaotic at times as well but look we're delighted to get over the line.”

Castlelyons is next up for Enright’s side, who lost their opening round tie to a late Blarney goal from a Mark Coleman free. It's a tough game against their near neighbours.

“Yeah that’s going to be a really tough game for us and down in Rathcormac so it's one we look forward to and will prepare for in the coming weeks.”

Last season they were well beaten by Blarney but victories over Courcey Rovers and Bride Rovers, who were subsequently promoted, meant they were very unlucky not to get out of the group. A win over Castlelyons later this month should ensure there's no repeat.