Waterford FC extended their unbeaten run to ten matches with a significant 2-0 victory away to St Patrick's Athletic on Friday night. The win, reported by Balls.ie and The 42, lifts the Blues to 8th in the Premier Division with 32 points from 29 games.
How did Waterford secure the win at Richmond Park?
Goals from Jorgen Voilas and John Mahon secured the three points at Richmond Park. According to match reports from The 42, Waterford's opener came after Tommy Longergan set up Voilas following a defensive error, while Mahon powerfully headed home a Benny Couto corner for the second.
Manager Graham Coughlan's side executed their game plan effectively against a Pat's team chasing the title. The performance demonstrated the team's growing confidence, moving them 22 points behind leaders Shamrock Rovers but further clear of immediate relegation concerns.
What did Graham Coughlan say after the match?
Speaking to RTÉ Sport after the game, Coughlan deflected praise onto his players with a reference to José Mourinho. "Look, it's nothing to do with me. It's all down to the group in the dressing room," Coughlan said. "I ask them, I tell them what to do and they do it to the letter of the law."
The manager emphasized the strong relationship within the squad, calling it "a pleasure walking in to work with them every day." This third win of the month against Dublin opposition follows previous victories over Shelbourne and Bohemians at the RSC.
What is Waterford's current form and next challenge?
Waterford's recent form shows three wins and two draws from their last five matches (WWDDW). They have scored 39 goals this season while conceding 48, resulting in a -9 goal difference. Their next fixture is a home match against Sligo Rovers on September 4th.
According to an RTÉ preview, Stephen Kenny acknowledged Waterford as "the form team" before the match. The Blues' squad has been boosted by summer loanee Blair McKenzie, who made his debut in their previous 0-0 draw at Sligo. Will Johnson and Sam Glenfield remain unavailable due to injury.
How does this result affect the wider league picture?
The victory deals a blow to St Patrick's Athletic's title aspirations while solidifying Waterford's mid-table security. With the team also through to the FAI Cup quarter-finals, where they will host Sligo Rovers, the season holds further promise. Fans can track the team's progress on our standings and fixtures pages.
This sustained run of form, which began after Coughlan's arrival, has transformed Waterford's season. The team now looks to build on this momentum in their upcoming home game, aiming to continue a positive streak that has seen them lose just twice in 16 outings.
