Air turns wrong shade of blue as dreams are dashed in the Déise

THE DEEP, deep sighs accompanying the eye-rolling that seemed to say "here we go again" exchanged between Waterford supporters in the Déise yesterday spoke volumes about the effects of the dreams dashed and hopes denied at Croke Park yesterday.

The 23-point defeat was unfathomable, unworthy of Waterford's campaign efforts. Even the pockets of Kilkenny fans around the place seemed stunned.

Earlier yesterday, Barronstrand Street and John Roberts Square were hives of activity, with hoards of people buzzing about the Terre Madre food festival's farmers' market.

Then, later in the afternoon, crowds of supporters congregated around the screen at John Roberts.

An expectant crowd of about 1,500 were quietened within minutes, and the air turned the wrong shade of blue as score upon score was notched up, to the frustration of Waterford's supporters.

Jimmy Shanahan, a cousin of Waterford hurler Ken McGrath from Lisduggan, said: "I think the nerves of the big occasion got to the team and I think that's what it was. But I don't think the team are that bad: it was just the hype and the day that was in it."

"It was so hyped up all over the place; everywhere you went it was blue and white," said Amy Whelan of Doyle Street, also in the city.

Proprietor of Phil Grimes' Pub in Johnstown, Tom Ryan, who is a brother of Wexford senior football manager Jason Ryan, last night said: "Hurling in Kilkenny is unique . . . it's a bit like footballing in Kerry. It is the mecca of hurling.

"I feel very sorry for the lads, for the players, their wives or girlfriends, their friends and family. I don't think most people realise the commitment they put in; it's an amazing commitment and dedication.

"They're hurting bad, but it's great to be there and it's great to have the day out for supporters. You need to knock on the door a few times before you go through it."