Cork's experience paid off in a nail biting All-Ireland semi-final that saw them edge out Waterford by a single point, 1-16 to 1-15.
The victory was due in large part to an inspired second half substitution to bring on youngster Cathal Naughton who contributed a point and a goal with his first two touches of the sliothar.
Damp conditions and a hard surface didn't make for classic play with the players finding it difficult to stay on their feet.
Cork dominated the first half possession but couldn't seem to convert that into scores and Waterford did just enough to stay in touch. Eoin Kelly, stand-in freetaker for the day, kept the Deise men in touch and their first five points all came from frees.
On the stroke of half time John Mullane turned from an awkward angle and slotted a point over for Waterford to send the teams in level with 0-8 each.
Waterford had the dream start to the second half when Eoin Kelly lashed the ball to the back of the net following a goal mouth scramble.
The sides continued to trade points but Cork were starting to dominate mid-field with Ronan Curran and Sean Og O hAilpin in fine form for the All-Ireland champions.
With 13 minutes to go Naughon reduced Cork's deficit to a point and a minute later Joe Deane set him up for his first Championship goal.
Quickly taken points by Ken McGrath and John Mullane brought Waterford to within a point with three minutes to play.
Mullane then upended Joe Deane for a free on the sideline, which the Cork man converted himself to give Cork a 1-16 to 1-14 advantage as the game moved into injury time.
Eoin McGrath responded immediately with a long range point which set up a nail biting finish when Waterford won a free 65 minutes out. Ken McGrath took the free and agonizingly for the team looking to reach their first final since 1963 his long range effort hit the post.