Eugene O'Neill scored three goals in as many minutes as Tipperary comprehensively defeated Waterford in the Munster under21 hurling championship semi-final in Thurles last night. Tipperary, containing eight members of the senior panel, were superior for much of the game.

Tipperary made all the early running with a Michael Kennedy goal after 10 minutes and four superb points from full forward O'Neill left them in control. Kennedy struck his second goal three minutes before the break to leave Tipperary leading 2-9 to 0-9 at half-time. Ken McGrath was most productive for Waterford, hitting 06.

O'Neill, John Carroll and Michael Kennedy were in fine form for Tipperary and controlled much of the play. A blistering five-minute spell immediately after resumption effectively ended the game as a contest, as O'Neill scored his three goals.