Waterford hurling manager is relishing the challenge of facing Cork in Sunday's Allianz Hurling League Division 1 final at Semple Stadium.
The Déise are unbeaten so far in 2015, having topped the standings in Division 1B, before accounting for Galway and Tipperary to book their place in the top-tier decider.
The clash with Cork comes five weeks ahead of the counties' Munster semi-final encounter and for McGrath, the prospect of two big games in just over a month is an exciting prospect.
Speaking to RTÉ Sport, the Déise boss said. "Cork are a class team.The last time we played them we were beaten by 14 points in a Munster championship replay last year. Our task now is to bridge that gap.
"It's great to be involved in two massive games in the space of five weeks" - Derek McGrath
"I'm expecting a big physical challenge from Cork.They always have an innate belief in themselves that they’ll get over the line, particularly against a team like Waterford.
"The goal for us is to make sure we are properly prepared and ready. I'm confident of that. Within the camp,there is more an excitement and adrenalin than a nervous tension in the air.
"It's great to be involved in two massive games in the space of five weeks and it’s a challenge for the management to find a way to win any of the two games. It’s certainly a challenge we’re relishing.”
McGrath has introduced many newcomers from successful under-age teams to the Waterford set up this spring and their inclusion has certainly made a difference. It has given the team a renewed spark and has revitalised the careers of some of the more established players.
"You’re hopeful that a period of bedding in younger players with more experienced players eventually pays off," he added.
"Regardless of how Sunday goes, and it’s not been defeatist in any way, we feel we’re going in the right direction. If we’re beaten on Sunday, it will be because Cork were better than us."
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