THE two managers know Waterford well. Davy Fitzgerald and Liam Cahill have brought the county to the All-Ireland final. Waterford last won the Liam MacCarthy Cup in 1959.
This is only March. But so far so good for both sides as they seek to secure a semi-final place from Division 1B of the National Hurling League. The top two sides will progress to the last four. Tipperary lead the table on six points, with Waterford a point behind.
Both teams like to spread the table-cloth. The Thurles turf will suit them.
Cahill's Tipp team have won three from three, including away wins against Kilkenny, and in Croke Park against Dublin. They began the campaign with a handsome home victory over Laois.
Waterford are also unbeaten. They drew their opening match against the Dubs at Fraher Field before defeating Laois away and Antrim at home. Against Antrim, two long-range points from full-back, Conor Prunty, were among the highlights of the duel.
Jason Forde is in top form for Tipp – 1-15 against Kilkenny and 1-10 against Dublin. There's a splash of optimism surrounding the Premier county this season while, as ever, no matter where he goes, Davy is always box office.
What time is the throw-in?
The game throws-in on Saturday at FBD Semple Stadium at 7.15.
Where can I watch it?
The match is live on TG4.
What the coaches say:
Liam Cahill (Tipperary): "We are pleased the way things are going. We have used around 30 players in our three League games. We are happy with what we are seeing within the panel. Fellas are putting their hands up. And that increases our options."
Davy Fitzgerald (Waterford): "Fellas are getting their chance. But we need to up the work-rate and improve our finishing. We beat Antrim by eight points the last day, but overall we weren't happy with our display. We'll need to be better."
Prediction
Tipperary 2-20 Waterford 1-16
