Winning Streak

Tommy Lonergan marking another great win (Photo - Josh Kiely)

What a summer and what a run! Is this really the same team that went sixteen games without a win to start the season? That lost five in a row in March? That were leaking like a sieve and couldn’t score? That were completely demoralised and becoming a laughing stock? 

The squad always had plenty of talent and desire. It needed Graham Coughlan to get them together, set them up to win games and put fire in their bellies and for the supporters to stick with them. They’re an outstanding bunch with unbreakable belief and team spirit now.

Don’t forget that this run of eleven games unbeaten (eight wins) started after we were 2-0 down half an hour into the game in Oriel Park back in June. Waterford were still bottom of the table at that stage - five points behind Sligo, eight behind Drogheda. The Blues showed real character to get back into that game with two goals from Tommy Lonergan and a late winner from John Mahon.

Ten weeks later and Waterford are the team nobody wants to face. Surging in the league and into the last four of the cup. That there could even be a conversation about anyone else being in the running for Manager of the Year is laughable because Graham is achieving things that have never been done before in the history of Irish football.

We still have seven league games that can genuinely be looked forward to, and we are one match away from a trip to Lansdowne Road for a first cup final in 22 years. The Blues could win a first cup in 46 years, play in Europe for the first time in 41 years and, of course, make sure 2027 is their fourth year back in the Premier Division. Big games and exciting times ahead - make sure you’re in the RSC twice next weekend. Don’t miss out!