After facing uncertainty throughout the 2026 campaign, Derry City positions itself for redemption in the upcoming FAI Cup final against Waterford, with both silverware and a place in the 2027 Europa League on the line.
Managerial changes and inconsistent performances have marred Derry’s season, especially following the departure of Tiernan Lynch on August 5, when the team was sixth in the Premier Division, having secured only one win in their last seven matches.
Mark Connolly, a former captain, stepped in as interim manager and has since revitalized the team, achieving eight wins out of 13 games and leading Derry to the final after victories over UCD, Dundalk, and Galway United.
With a chance for a remarkable cup double, Connolly aims to add another FAI Cup to his accolades after having lifted the Irish Cup with Coleraine in May, transitioning from player to coach.
Advertisement
‘I don’t think many Derry people had their hotels booked’
Earlier this season, a trip to Lansdowne Road in November seemed unlikely for the Candystripes, as fans focused more on league struggles than the prospect of cup glory.
“Probably midway through the season, I don’t think many Derry people had their hotels booked for the Aviva,” Connolly told BBC Sport NI’s Dessie McCallion. “Now we’ve a trip to the Aviva and we’re all going to enjoy every moment of it.”
Connolly emphasized the joy his team has experienced during their preparations, stating, “This week we’ll bounce into it, bounce into training with a smile on our faces and look forward to Sunday.”
Despite the challenges faced this season, Derry enters the final as the favorite, supported by a large fan base. “There’s always pressure when you play for Derry City and the expectations of winning things, and that’s been here for a lifetime, you know what I mean? It doesn’t change,” said Connolly.
He reassured his squad, reminding them to cherish the experience of the cup final, stressing, “It’s been a really, really tough season, and we were written off for large spells, rightly so, because we haven’t been good enough. Now it’s all about enjoying it and giving absolutely everything.”
‘I think there’s a big difference from 2024 to now’
As Derry prepares for its third cup final in five years, Connolly shifts from his prior role as a player to leading from the dugout. The 2022 final was a triumph, where Derry defeated Shelbourne 4-0, but the 2024 final ended in disappointment with a loss to Drogheda United amidst a failed title bid.
Reflecting on the past seasons, Connolly noted, “The feeling now compared to the 2024 one is a drastic difference. We don’t really have many out of contract now. The boys are all in a really, really good place.” He highlighted the positive atmosphere in the team as they prepare for Sunday’s crucial match.
Derry Aims to Conclude ‘Strange’ Season on a Positive Note
In their previous league encounters, Derry and Waterford have produced a total of 20 goals across four matches, with each team claiming one victory while two ended in draws.
Waterford’s trajectory mirrors that of Derry, as the team saw a resurgence following managerial changes. Under Graham Coughlan, standout performances from top scorers Tommy Lonergan and Padraig Amond have played a crucial role in steering the club clear of relegation and into the cup final.
Connolly expressed confidence in his team’s potential, saying, “I think our team, on our day, we can beat anyone. If we’re not on our day, we could probably get beat by the majority of teams in the league. So we know that if we turn up and we’re at it, we’ve a right chance.” He emphasized the importance of being ready to face Waterford’s offensive threats, particularly from set-pieces.
He concluded, “Sunday is going to be extremely tough, and fingers crossed we can finish off what’s been a strange season. Hopefully, we can finish on a high.”
