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19/02/03
Mulcahy Signs
The Blues have made their first signing of the close season by securing the signature of David Mulcahy from Kilkenny. Meanwhile former Blue Alan Reynolds who had earlier been linked with a return to his hometown club has signed for Shamrock Rovers stating the chance to play in Europe and challenge for honours as the deciding factor.
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23/01/03
Season rounded off with a win Waterford United this afternoon rounded off their successful eL 1st Division season with a 1-0 victory over Limerick FC at the RSC courtesy of a winning goal. The result was of little consequence as it was merely a day of celebration for the Blues who entered the pitch to a standing ovation from the large attendance and a guard of honour from the visitors. After the game captain John Frost received the 1st division trophy from FAI President Milo Corcoran after which the celebrations could really begin!!
18/01/03
Blues are champions Waterford United were tonight crowned eircom League first division Cghampions without kicking a ball after Galway's 3-0 victory over finn Harps meant that the Blues held an unassailable lead at the top of the league. The Blues have 2 games remaining, away to Harps and at home to Limerick in what should be a day to celebrate their return to the big time.
16/01/03
Nearly there The Blues are within touching distance of the eircom League first division title after their 1-0 victory over Dundalk in Oriel Park last night. Daryl Murphy scored the winning goal with just 9 minutes remaining to send the Blues fans present into raptures. The blues are now just 3 points from the promised land of premier Division footbal
04/01/03
Blues move one point closer Waterford United last night fought back from a 2-0 half time deficit to move another point closer to promotion with a 2-2 draw with Monaghan United at the RSC. With Finn Harps game against Kildare County being postponed due to a frozen pitch, the Blues now lead the first division by 8 points and victory in Ballybofey on Saturday night next would clinch the title. The Blues started the game brightly and had the best of a quiet opening. On 13 minutes Vinny Sullivan raced clear and was hauled down just outside the box by Glen Maheady who received his marching order from referee Hanney. However it was the visitors who took a shock lead through Darren McKenna 15 minutes later and when Wayne Russell received a red card for bringing down an onrushing Monaghan attacker in the box things looked grim for the Blues. Anthony Fennelly replaced Paul Leahy and took Russell's place between the sticks but could do nothing to stop John Lester's calmly placed spot-kick. With the Blues 2 down at half time news filtered through that Harps' game against Kildare had been postponed due to a frozen pitch meaning that regardless of the result the Blues would have to wait until at least Saturday next to claim the title. The second half began and the Blues threw caution to the wind and created numerous chances before Daryl Murphy halved the deficit after 57 minutes. Both Murphy and Kevin O'Brien then went close before Vinny Sullivan put the finishing touch to a goalmouth scramble on 65 minutes to level things up. For the last 20 minutes the Blues threw everything but the kitchen sink at the visitors but couldn't find a way through as the ball went everywhere except into the Monaghan net. When the final whistle went it was the Blues who were the most disappointed of the 2 sides and will see this as a needless 2 points dropped due to their poor first half performance. They now have just 3 games remaining, away to Finn Harps and Dundalk and at home to Limerick on the last day of the season. However as the management always say, look no further than the next game and take one game at a time and this time a win in that one game will be enough to clinch promotion-roll on Ballybofey!
28/12/02
Blues win again Waterford United moved one point closer to their goal of winning the eL 1st division and claiming a place in the Premier Division with a 1-1 draw with in-form Kildare County at Station Road on Saturday last. The first half saw the Blues control the game and go close on numerous ocassions but it took them 44 minutes to break the deadlock. Vinny Sullivan picked up a good ball from Ross Cosgrove and held it up before playing a super ball across the edge of the box to his strike partner Daryl Murphy who fired a great left foot volley past County keeper Gareth Byrne. The second half however saw the home side fight their way back into the game and push the Blues further and further back. An equaliser seemed inevitable and after previously going within the width of the woodwork of getting it County finally got on level terms after 77 minutes when Wayne Russell parried a free kick from the left hand edge of the area before former Blue Alan Kelly pounced to scramble home the equaliser. Both sides had half chances to win the game in the closing minutes but a draw was a fair result in what was without doubt a game of 2 halves. This result combined with Finn Harps victory over Dundalk leaves the Blues 7 points clear and needing 6 points to claim promotion. On Saturday they host Monaghan at the RSC at 6pm while Harps visit Kildare at 7.45. A victory for the Blues coupled with defeat for Harps would see the Blues crowned champions, but anything less would see things continue at least until the following week when they travel to Ballybofey to face Harps.
Blues Team: Russell, Leahy, Frost, Breen, Byrne, Cosgrove, Di Lella, O'Brien, Fitzgerald, Murphy, Sullivan.
Subs Used: Waters, Cosgrove .
19/12/02
Blues win again First
Division leaders Waterford United simultaneously
matched the achievement of Premier Division
counterparts Bohemians by stretching their advantage
at the top to ten points with a victory over Galway
United on Thursday night, to giove the fans an early
christmas present.
Just as Bohs were beating bronze-medallists Cork
City at Dalymount Park, Waterford were doing
likewise against the third-placed Tribesmen at the
RSC, although the Blues’ victory was altogether
less clear-cut than the top flight champions-elect.
It took a 55th minute goal from Vinny Sullivan, the
former Celtic youngster’s eleventh of the season,
to seal the points in Waterford’s favour.
And the partnership that has driven Waterford clear
at the top of the table bore fruition once more,
with Daryl Murphy providing the telling cross from
which Sullivan headed the winner.
Galway almost snatched a point ten minutes from the
end when Fran Carter’s header was excellently
stopped by Blues netminder Wayne Russell, and
Waterford held on for the three points.
The visitors had not been daunted all night, and
went close to taking the lead on three occasions in
the first half, but former Bohs shot-stopper Russell
proved more than their equal all night.
With just five games remaining for the leaders,
Waterford are almost certain of the one automatic
promotion spot, with Galway now resigned to a battle
for one of the three play-off places.
15/11/02
Mick is coming to Town Former Republic of Ireland Manager, Mick McCarthy, travels back to his father’s hometown later this month. The occasion is a dinner in aid of Waterford United Football Club, where he will be the guest speaker for the evening. The dinner itself will kick off at 8.30pm on Friday, November 29th at the Tower Hotel and Leisure Centre in Waterford and tickets are €100 per head or a table of 10 for €1,000.
Born in Barnsley in England, McCarthy (43) is extremely proud of his Waterford roots. He qualified to play for the Republic under the parentage rule, with his late father Charlie - who passed away last March - originally from Tallow in the west of the county. He went on to win 57 caps, many as captain of the national side. He has many relations still living in the town.
For further information please contact Yvonne O’Brien or Martina Kenny at (051) 853222.
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15/11/02
Blues hold out in Mels
The Blues held out for a vital 3-2 victory over Athlone Town in St Mels Park on Friday last despite late pressure from the home side trying to snatch a draw. The Blues got off to a dream start going 3-0 up within 17 minutes with 3 of the easiest goals you're likely to see this season as the home defence went AWOL. The first came from an og from Athlone's Ronan Frawley as he attempted to pass the ball back to his keeper but instead placed it perfectly in the bottom left hand corner. A good run by John Frost down the left saw him send a cross in to the unmarked Daryl Murphy who headed home from 6 yards while minutes later it was Kevin Waters who sent in the cross to find Vinny Sullivan unmarked and he tapped home to give the visitors a 3 goal cushion. As the half wore on the home side began to come into the game a bit more and went close on the stroke of half time forcing Russell into a good save. The second half saw the home side throw caution to the wind and come at the table toppers all guns blazing and they got their reward on 58 minutes when Stephen Mullen lobbed the ball over the out-rushing Wayne Russell to give them a glimmer of hope. And on 78 minutes a foul by Paul Leahy in the Blues box gave Stephen Kelly the chance to pull another one back from the spot which he duly did. Athlone threw everything at the Blues for the last 10 minutes but the resolute Blues rearguard held firm to claim the points and after the weekends games they now hold a 5 point lead at the top of Division 1
06/10/02
Blues stay top The Blues remain top of the eircom League first Division after a scoreless draw with Galway United in Terryland Park on Saturday night but Finn Harps' victory over Monaghan has moved them to within 1 point of the leaders. Despite having much of the first half possesion the home side failed to create any serious goal-scoring opportunities while the Blues were limited to 2 breakaway attempts from Vinny Sulivan but both of his 18 yard shots went straight at the keeper. The Blues came into the game more and more in the second half and started to control the midfield where they had been second best for the opening period.however they had the first scare of the half when John Frost had to clear off the line after a with Russell stranded. From then on however it was the Blues who had the better chances with Alex Dixon going close on 2 occassions, firstly with a header from a right wing cross which 'keeper Forde touched over and then with a shot from inside the box which again Forde saved well. The final chance of the game fell to Daryl Murphy who went on another of what are becoming his trademark last minute runs and shot only for Forde to somehow get his leg in the way and the ball trickled away to safety.
Blues Team: Russell, Leahy, Rea, Breen, Frost, Cosgrove, Lilburn, O'Brien, Waters, Sullivan, Dixon.
Subs: Di Lella for Lilburn, Murphy for Sullivan, Kennedy for Waters
Subs not used: Fennelly, Byrne
11/09/02
Blues earn brief spell at top The Blues temporarily fired themselves to the top of the eircom League 1st Division after a 2-1 victory over Dublin City at the RSC on Thursday night. United who gave a debut to Argentinian Gustavo Di Lella in the middle of midfield took the lead after 28 minutes when Kevin O'Brien fired home after a scramble around the Vikings goalmouth. Things were made even harder for the visitors when they were reduced to 10 men just before half time when Gareth Wilson received 2 bookings in the space of 6 minutes. The second half which should have seen the Blues use their one man advantage to confirm their superiority turned out to be a bit of a disappoitnment. However it all started well when Vinny Sullivan doubled the lead scoring his 3rd goal in 3 games after 51 minutes. From then on however the Blues seemed to take their foot off the accelerator and let the Dubs fight their way back into the game. The ball was given away cheaply and Dublin were given space to run at the defence and it all led to a nervy last half hour for the Blues faithful. The Dubs did manage to get one back when a free kick from the right was met by Thomas McGauley whose powerful header gave Wayne Russell no chance in the Blues goal. However the home side held out for the 3 points that saw them claim top spot in the first division until Saturday night when Cobh's draw with Dundalk allowed them reclaim 1st place from the Blues on goal difference
Blues Team: Russell, Leahy, Rea, Breen, Frost, Cosgrove, Di Lella, O'Brien, Waters, Sullivan, Dixon.
Subs: Fitzgerald for Di Lella, Murphy for Dixon, Byrne for Waters
Subs not used: Fennelly, Watson
11/09/02
New signings ready to make bow Jimmy McGeough will give a debut to Argentinian import Gustavo Di-Lella as Waterford United hope to build on their victory over Sligo Rovers in their last league outing when the Blues face Dublin City at the RSC on Thursday night (Kick off 7:30).
The midfielder, who McGeough sees as the ideal replacement for Gary Dempsey, impressed against the Irish Junior international side last week in a friendly and McGeough has no worries about throwing him against League opposition.
He told fai.ie "I've been looking around all summer for someone to replace Gary and Gustavo is the closest I've seen. Gary was the type of player who suited our style of play and hopefully Gustavo will be the same. He comes here with a lot of experience having played in Spain and with Hartlepool in England."
Willie Byrne, a recent signing from Cobh Ramblers, is also expected to make his debut while Wayne Fitzgerald has declared himself fit after picking up a foot injury during Monday's clash with the Ireland Junior side.
1/09/02
Battling Blues get the better of SLigo Waterford United picked up their first win of the new league campaign in a hard fought victory over Sligo Rovers at the Showgrounds on Saturday night. The Blues, reverting to a 4-4-2 formation, started brightly with a Vinny Sullivan shot coming back off the Sligo post after he had been headed through by Alex Dixon and the post was again involved when the Blues did take the lead on the 20 minute mark. The ball broke to Paul Leahy on the edge of the Sligo area and his shot hit one post and then the other before crossing the line to put the Blues one up.
The second half saw Sligo coming into the game more and more and the Blues restricted to breakaway chances, one of which led to a corner which David Breen headed narrowly over. However Sligo weren't as lucky for the blues next breakaway. Kevin O'Brien picked up the ball just outside his own penalty area and quickly spotted the space both Alex Dixon and Vinny Sullivan had found themselves in on the left hand side. One swift cross field ball later and Dixon was racing through on goal before unselfishly playing the ball into the path of Sullivan who was left with the simple task of tapping into an empty net from 5 yards. This seemed to knock the stuffing out of the home side but they received a boost on 82 minutes when Blues captain John Frost was dismissed for an off the ball incident in the Blues penalty area. Sligo's pressure finally told on the 90th minute when former Galway striker Luthor Watson headed home a left wing cross to half the deficit but despite the seemingly endless stoppage time played by the referee the Blues defence held out with Brendan Rea and David Breen clearing everything that came their way.
Meanwhile Blues boss Jimmy McGeough hopes to have signed 2 Americans from the Connecticut Wolves over the next week-one is a centre half while the other is a defensive midfielder who can also play left midfield or left back-as well as an Argentinian while it is expected that Willie Byrne from Cobh who the Blues have been linked with recently will attend for a trial in the near future.
Best for Blues: Brendan Rea
Blues Team: Russell, Leahy, Frost, Rea, Breen, Waters, R Cosgrove, O'Brien, Fitzgerald, Dixon, Sullivan
Subs Used: Mallon for Fitzgerald, A Cosgrove for Dixon, Murphy for Sullivan
Subs not used: Fennelly, Phelan.
22/08/02
Late equaliser costs Blues dearly The new eircom League division 1 season got under way at the RSC on Thursday last with Athlone the visitors for the opening game and it will be the midlanders who went home the more satisfied of the 2 sides. It took the Blues, lining out in a 3-5-2 formation, only 5 minutes to open their account when a foul on Richie Lopes led to a penalty which Kevin O'Brien calmly slotted away. And when the impressive Sullivan doubled the lead just minutes before half time it seemed as if this was going to be 3 points to start the season for the Blues. However the defensive frailty which has shown up in the 1st division cup games to date and indeed in last weeks defeat to Derry City in the FAI Cup was all too evident again when failure to clear an Athlone free kick allowed Stephen Kelly to head home on the stroke of half time. The Blues created very little throughout the second half with the only chance of note falling to Ross Cosgrove after good work on the left hand side of the box by Alex Dixon but Cosgrove could only fire over the bar. And once again it was the defensive inability which cost us dearly as a late corner wasn't cleared and Conor Frawley scored to take a share of the points for Athlone and it could have been all 3 but for a good save by Wayne Russell in the last minute. It was definitely 2 points dropped and we can't afford to do that at home in such a short league campaign.
Blues Team: Russell, Leahy, Breen, Frost, O'Brien, Fitzgerald, Lopes, Sullivan, Dixon
Subs Used: Mallon
Subs not used: Rea, Phelan, Fennelly, Rockett
29/07/02
Blues through after penalty drama A night of high drama in the RSC finished with the Blues claiming a place in the 3rd round of the FAI Carlsberg Cup after a penalty shootout victory over Limerick FC. Just 4 days ago the sides played out a 1-1 draw in Jackman Park and for the Blues it was one that got away with the home side equalising with a penalty in the 93rd minute. Tonight, it all happened again. Twice the home side led only to be pegged back on each occasion. Wayne Fitzgerald gave the Blues the lead in the first half after a Kevin Waters corner was flicked on at the near post and Fitzgerald reacted quickest to blast home from close range to give Waterford a deserved lead. Limerick got back on level terms after 6 minutes of the second half when Stephen O'Flynn scored his 3rd goal in 3 weeks against the Blues. For the remainder of the ninety minutes it was the Blues who created the best chances with Watson, Dixon, O'Brien, Waters and Breen all missing chances while at the other end the defence looked anything but solid at times. In the dying minutes Limerick were reduced to 10 men as Kerley lashed out at Wayne Fitzgerald under the referee's nose. There were to be no more goals and the game went to extra time. Only 5 minutes into the first period Joey Watson was fouled in the Limerick penalty area when trying to latch on to an Alex Dixon pass, referee Aiden O'Regan pointed to the spot and Kelvin Flanagan made no mistake to put the Blues back in front. After that the home side seemed to be cruising into the 3rd round draw when a harshly awarded free kick was sent into the Blues box and flicked by Paul Leahy over the head of his own 'keeper, off the bar and into the net with only 3 minutes left. There was to be no further action and the dreaded penalty shootout awaited both sides. Shooting into the city goal, both sides scored their first penalty. Wayne Russell then saved Limerick's next spot kick before Kelvin Flanagan scored his second penalty of the night to put the Blues 2-1 up. Limerick scored their next penalty as did Kevin O'Brien for the Blues but Limerick's fourth penalty came back off the crossbar leaving the Blues needing just 1 goal from their 2 remaining penalties to win. Paul Leahy stepped up and made no mistake in atoning for his previous error to send the Blues through.
Blues Penalty Takers: Frost, Flanagan, O'Brien, Leahy
Blues Team: Russell, Leahy, Frost, Breen, Rea, Flanagan, Fitzgerald, Waters, O'Brien, Murphy, Phelan
Subs used: Watson for Phelan; Dixon for Murphy
Subs not used: Ryan, Cosgrave, Fennelly
19/07/02
Blues win first point Waterford United won their first point of the new season in a 0-0 draw with Athlone Town in the eircom First Division cup at St Mels Park on Thursday last. However it was, for the most part, a far from impressive performance from the Blues who could easily have gone down to their 3rd defeat had Athlone's strikers had their shooting boots on. That said, with a number of first teamers missing it was quite an experimental Blues side which took to the field. Stephen Ryan made his first start, coming in for Brendan Rea to partner Paul Leahy at the heart of the defence, Kevin O'Brien moved to right back, new signing Ross Cosgrove played on the right side of midfield while Panamanian Alex Dixon partnered 17 year old former Johnville player Gavin Phelan up front.
It was an encouraging start for the Blues who cut the home defence open with ease and Gavin Phelan should have given them the lead inside the opening minute but he shot wide at the second attempt. However that was about as good as it got as the home side came into the game from then on and had the best of the first half chances, repeatedly putting the static Blues defence under pressure. However a combination of poor shooting and some good stops from Russell kept the scoresheet blank. The defence continues to be a cause for concern at it's to be hoped that Breener's return next week can add some assurance to a defence which has looked shaky in the 3 games to date. The early part of the second half continued in much the same vein as the first with the home side controlling things and the Blues at times struggling to string 3 passes together however they were unable to make the breakthrough despite a couple of good chances, one of which almost took the paint of Russell's right hand post while another was stopped by Russell on the line.
The last 15 minutes saw a marked improvement in the Blues play as they finally started knocking the ball around on the ground and making Athlone work for it and creating a couple of half chances in the process and this is an improvement that will have to be built on next Thursday if we are to avoid an early cup exit.
Blues Team: Russell, O'Brien, Frost, Ryan, Leahy, Flanagan, Lopez, R Cosgrove, Waters, Dixon, Phelan
Subs Used: Fitzgerald for Flanagan, Watson for Dixon, Rockett for Phelan
Subs not used: Rea, A Cosgrove.
11/07/02
Limerick bogey strikes again Early last season saw one of the most forgetable Blues nights of recent years at Jackman Park when the Blues went down 4-0 to Limerick and finished with 8 men and while Thursday nights game didn't quite reach those depths it wasn't a performance that will fill the few Blues fans present with hope for the season ahead. It all started well for the visitors when they went one up after just 11 minutes. Andy Cosgrove made a superb taclke on the edge of his own box, fed it to Kevin O'Brien who knocked the ball over the top to Richie Lopez(who played up front) who fed Joe Watson from the right for Joey to finish calmly to the bottom left hand corner. However that was about as good as it got for the Blues. 5 minutes later Limerick were back on level terms when Frank Browne got behind the sleeping Blues defence and volleyed home from inside the box. After that chances were limited but Lopez should have shot when in on goal but instead passed tp Watson and the chance was lost; Lopez and Watson combined well again shortly after that when some neat interplay put Lopez in a good position but his shot didn't match the quality of the build up. Meanwhile at the other end new 'keeper Wayne Russell made an excellent save when the defence again went asleep leaving the Limerick striker one-on-one with the former Bohs 'keeper. The Blues were given some hope when the home side were reduced to 10 men after 50 minutes when goalscorer Browne jumped wildly into Cosgrove and received a straight red card(despite having been booked only moments earlier). There were very few chances to speak of in the second half, that is until the 89th minute when the Blues failed to clear a Limerick corner, Mallon and Leahy left it to each other and Stephen O'Flynn nipped in to rifle home the winner. Judging by the looks and comments of the Blues backroom staff after the game the visitors dressing room wasn't the nicest place to be at full time and a big improvement is needed over the next 3 cup games if we are to be in any position to challenge when the league begins in just over a months time
Best for the Blues:Wayne Fitzgerald
Blues: Russell, Cosgrove, Frost, Rea, Leahy, Waters, O'Brien, Flanagan, Fitzgerald, Watson, Lopez. Subs Used: Mallon, Stanley, Phelan. Subs not used: Fennelly, Ryan
10/07/02
Blues sign Russell Waterford United have finally got their man when former Bohemians goalkeeper Wayne Russell signed for the 'Blues' in time for tonight's First Division Cup clash with Limerick.
Manager Jim McGeough told soccercentral.ie "It is great to get Wayne, he has planty of experience having won doubles in botht eheircom and Irish Leagues with Bohemians and Glentoran."
"We had targetted him earlier but he returned to Wales for family reasons during the summer but he made contact and arrived for training this week and last night we agreed terms and he signed."
"We are a very young and inexperienced side but Wayne being a goalkeeper will be a position to encourage and lead the youngerster on the field."
"Tonight we face Limerick away and it will be a hard battle, every Munster side you play always seem to treat it as a derby game but we have self belief and confidence and that should help us out."
04/07/02
Disappointing start for BlLues The Blues got their 1st division cup campaign off to a disappointing start at a rain soaked RSC on Thursday night. The visitors hadn't beaten their hosts in their last 14 meetings stretching back to the League Cup in 1997(a 5-0 victory for Cobh) but it took them only 5 minutes to get their noses in front when slack BlLues defending allowed Jason Kabia to cross from the right despite claims for offside and Dobbs had the space to finish from close range. However it took the Blues only 10 minutes to get back on level terms when former Luton Town striker Daryl Murphy took a pass from Muddy Waters inside the box, turned sharpley and rifled home to the 'keepers left from 16 yards. The big turning point came just after the half hour mark when Kelvin Flanagan received his marching orders(for the second time in his short Blues career)for a second bookable offence from referee Anthony Buttimer for what seemed to be a rather innocuous clash with his former Cork City teammate Gerald Dobbs. This forced the Blues to reorganise with young Gavin Phelan who started up front forced into a wide midfield role leaving the previously lively Murphy isolated up front. Cobh's winner came midway through the 2nd half, with the BLues attacking Ramblers won the ball and 1 quick pass later the Blues defence was caught napping as the speedy Willie Bruton streaked away rom Paul Leahy before neatly placing the ball inside Fennelly's left hand post. Best for the Blues:Richie Lopez.
Blues: Fennelly, Cosgrove, Frost, Rea, Leahy, Waters, O'Brien, Flanagan, Lopez, Murphy, Phelan.
Subs Used: Scully, Ryan.
Subs not used: Watson, Stanley, Morris
27/05/02
Cup to start new season The new First Division campaign will begin with a month long subsidiary cup competition. As the First Division season is shorter than the Premier Division season, there was a gap between the scheduled end of the two divisions. However, First Division clubs objected to this as they wanted both divisions to end at the same time. At the eircom League Managament Committee meeting last night, the twelve First Division clubs were undecided whether to play the cup at the start or end of the season, with the vote tied 6-6. League Chairman Michael Hyland had the casting vote, and he voted to begin the season with the cup, meaning the two divisions will both play their finals games on the same day. While the exact format of the competition has yet to be released, it is understood that the Blues will start their season against Munster rivals Cobh Ramblers on the weekend of July 7.
Meanwhile, amid growing dissatisfaction among Blues fans at season ticket prices for the forthcoming season-which have remained unchanged from last season when despite the extra cup competition there will be 5 fewer home games in the league and no league cup this season-the club have announced that priority for Euro 2004 qualifying match tickets will be given to Waterford United season ticket holders for 2002/2003 season. Season ticket prices for the coming season are as follows:
Stand:
Adult-€125
Child-€50
Student-€90
Ground:
Adult-€75
Child-€20
Student-€60
16/05/02
Blues Consider Thursdays Waterford United are considering switching their home matches for the coming season from the traditional Friday night time to Thursday nights. The Blues played 2 games last season on Thursday against Kilkenny City and Drogheda United, neither of which appeared to affect the attendance either positively or negatively. Should the Blues decide on this couse of action, they would join a growing number of clubs including Dundalk, Derry City and UCD who all played home games on Thursday nights last season.
We'd like to hear what you think about this possibility so we have started a new BTID ONLINE POLL asking which is your preferred night for the Blues to play their home games, Thursday or Friday. We would also like to hear your views on the MESSAGE BOARD of what you think of this idea.
16/05/02
Dempsey on the move Waterford United midfielder, Gary Dempsey, has agreed to sign for Dunfermline Athletic on a three-year deal, following a recent trial in Scotland with the “Pars”. During the trial, Dunfermline Athletic Manager, Jimmy Calderwood, showed strong interest in “The Blues” midfielder and following protracted negotiations, Waterford United agreed terms. All relevant contracts to complete Gary Dempsey’s transfer to Dunfermline athletic are expected to be signed next week. The Wexford born player was “The Blues” Supporters Player of the Year last season and a played a vital part in the clubs promotion chase and in the winning of the two U-21 trophies. In scoring fourteen goals last season, the natural progression for a player with such talent was a move up to the eircom Premier Division or across the water. There had been interest from Premiership clubs earlier this year and faced with the player’s interest in moving, Waterford United agreed an undisclosed sum with Scottish Premier League side to allow Gary Dempsey further his career.
”We were very anxious to keep Gary Dempsey here for next season, as he is a vital contributor to our young team and we will miss him in our campaign this summer. When he was signed though, we agreed we would not stand in his way should an offer be made from another club.” explained Waterford United Manager, Jimmy McGeough, “Our priority now is to find a suitable replacement for him and continue to strengthen the squad for July. In the past few weeks that is what I have been spending my time on looking at options in the United States, England and Ireland.”
After agreeing personal terms with Dunfermline, Gary Dempsey said “I am delighted to further my career at Dunfermline Athletic, but sorry to be leaving Waterford United given they gave me a chance in the first team when I came on loan from Bray Wanderers. I am grateful to them for letting me go and wish Jimmy and the lads all the best for the coming season.”
The 21-year-old Gary Dempsey joined Everton as a teenager but was let go by the Mersey giants two years ago, and joined Bray Wanderers on his return to Ireland. He unable to nail down a regular place in the first team and in the late summer of 2001 joined Waterford United, where he became the clubs leading goal scorer last season. He was noticed this season by Ireland Under-21 Manager, Don Givens, who recently recommended him to Jimmy Calderwood at Dunfermline.
“The downside of a good run in the league is that your players attract a lot of interest and failure to get promotion makes it difficult to keep ambitious players who have the opportunity to move on.” said WUFC Chairman, Ger O’Brien, “In order to manage our finances and remain within our budgets, we are precluded from offering big wages to try and keep players. In these situations the best we can do is push for a decent transfer fee, which in this case has to be shared with Bray Wanderers, and really has limited value for Waterford United.”
22/04/02
Blues agree sponsorship dealWaterford United agreed a two-year sponsorship deal with All Canadian Sports (ACS) to provide sportswear for First, U-21 and future development teams at the club. The exclusive agreement allows ACS Soccer enter the eircom National League for the first time and will help build on their current commercial relationships in the Irish League, with Premier side Crusaders FC and with Dungannon Swifts in the First Division.
All Canadian Sports was established in 1974 to cater for the rapidly growing soccer market in Canada where participation has now surpassed ice hockey as the number one sport in the younger age groups. Waterford United had been in discussion with the Canadian sportswear manufacturer for some months and the recent chase for promotion in the eircom First Division and increased club profile secured the sponsorship agreement from ACS.
“The demands of providing professional clothing for the whole club are ever increasing and very costly these days” said Waterford United Manager, Jimmy McGeough “The association with ACS allows invest in other areas and assures us that the squad next season will be fully equipped at all levels and that our players have the best not only for matches, but also for weekly training sessions.”
“This is a great opportunity for ACS to get their brand into the eircom League” explained Leo O’Toole, ACS Sales & Marketing Manager for Ireland “Having moved to Canada from Dublin in 1993 I have watched the League of Ireland with interest over the years. Given that ACS started relationships with Crusaders and Dungannon in the past year and we are delighted to build on that now with Waterford United. We look forward to building a presence in the eircom League in the coming two years, as well as promoting replica sales for “The Blues”.
20/04/02
Blues are U21 ChampionsWaterford United today completed the first leg of a possible U21 league and cup double by claiming the Dr Tony O'Neill league title, beating Athlone Town at the RSC. However it was no easy ride for the Blues side which included a number of first team regulars. The visitors took the lead after half an hour when Devine scored a brilliant free-kick from 24 yards after a foul by David Breen. From then on the Blues saw a number of good chances go begging as Dempsey and Waters both missed from close range, Dempsey's chance being touched onto the post by the Athlone keeper. The break through for the Blues finally came after 20 minutes of the second half when Gary Dempsey, who had just moved back to midfield from up front, picked up a cross from Joey Watson,calmly controlled it and fired home from 6 yards. It took the Blues just 5 more minutes to claim the lead, but their second goal had more than a hint of luck about it, when Joe Watson got a lucky bounce to beat the defender and another from the keeper before tapping home. The Blues looked safe enough at this stage and were dominating when they had a blatant penalty turned down by ref Jimmy O'Neill(who gave some of the strangest decisions ever in what was a poor display)with 8 minutes to go. O'Neill then pointed to the spot at the other end when Brendan Rea allegedly dragged back an Athlone attacker at a free kick with 5 minutes to go. Athlone's Shine kept his nerve and earned the visitors an extra half-hour. Extra time saw very few clear chances for either side, although Kevin O'Brien did have the ball in the net minute before the end, only for it to be ruled out for offside. Extra time eventually came to an end and it was into the dreaded penalty shootout, and it was Athlone who cracked first when Gavin Morris saved their 3rd penalty, while the Blues takers held their nerves to score 5 out of 5 to claim the title. All that ramained to complete the day was the presentation of the Man of the Match award to Gary Dempsey and the Dr Tony O'Neill trophy to Blues captain Michael Heffernan. It's now onto Tolka Park on Wednesday night for the young Blues where they face Shelbourne in the Cup Final. Kick Off is 7.30. The Blues penalty takers were:Breen, Walsh,Leahy, O'Brien, Dempsey.
Blues Team: Morris, A O'Brien, Leahy, Rea, Breen, Driver, Walsh, K O'Brien, Waters, Watson, Dempsey. Subs: Logan for Driver, Mallon for Watson, K Whittle for Logan.
04/04/02
Blues await newsThe lack of information in the past week has left Waterford United Manager, Jimmy McGeough, still awaiting official news from the eircom League in order to decide whether he can view this season as closed or not. Having heard “unofficially” that Dublin City were seeking arbitration on the ruling about Noel Hunts’ eligibility to play for Waterford United, McGeough’s squad have not been advised of any potential play off at this time. Indeed, the only notification received in the past few days was a letter from the Football Association of Ireland returning the fee, which was required for the appeal hearing, even though it was unsuccessful. Having ended the season in an atmosphere of some uncertainty with the “Noel Hunt” matter still ongoing with Dublin City looking to have the match between the two clubs replayed, should the arbitration prove successful for them. With the season officially over on March 31 the impact of any potential play off for “The Blues” would prove costly and has had an unsettling effect on the players as they all plan for their summer break.
“It is just very disappointing for all us here to end the season in this way” said Waterford United Manager, Jimmy McGeough, “To me it is inconceivable that we could be required to replay the match with Dublin City given that nobody has been in touch with us about such an eventuality.”
“For me personally, it has been quite a shock to come back from the USA and Major League Soccer to run a team in the eircom League where the rules and regulations are more challenging than your opponents on a Friday or Saturday night.” continued McGeough,
Although Waterford United have viewed the outcome of their appeal as a closed case “within football”, the club have taken advice on the matters relating to the “Noel Hunt Affair” and in the coming week plan to refer their findings to eircom League officials for consideration.
“Our supporters are annoyed at the League and more importantly, with the club, who they believe were badly advised in the matters relating to Noel Hunt. It is only right that we address those issues at the WUFC AGM with the shareholders and to do that properly we need to have some questions answered by the League officials and explanations proffered.” explained WUFC Director, Rossa McDermott, “For ever more history will record that Waterford United were deducted three points for playing an ineligible player in the eircom League First Division in the Season of 2001/2002. The fact that this would not have been sanctioned or agreed by either the Chairman, Ger O’Brien or myself had there been any doubt voiced by the League, will be very much forgotten. For all of us involved at the club that is not acceptable given that we run this company very professionally."
29/03/02
Dempsey named on eL panelSligo Rovers'
Manager Don O'Riordan has named a panel of 34 eircom League
players for a training session on Easter Monday at the AUL
Complex, Clonshaugh in preparation for the representative
tournament against England. The panel includes only 2 players
from the first division, Finn Harps Kevin McHugh and Blues
leading scorer Gary Dempsey who has just returned from training
with the Irish U-21s who beat Denmark 3-2 in Turners Cross on
Tuesday.
The full panel of players chosen is: Simon Webb, Stephen Caffrey,
Fergal Harkin, Glen Crowe, Bobby Ryan, Brian Shelley, Trevor
Molloy (All Bohemians), Owen Heary, Jon Minnock, Richie Baker,
Barry Prenderville (All Shelbourne), Paul Osam, Ciaran Foley,
Martin Russell, Liam Kelly, (All St Pats), Pat Scully, Tony
Grant, Shane Robinson, Sean Francis, Billy Woods, (All Shamrock
Rovers), Michael Devine, Derek Coughalan, Ollie Cahill (Cork
City), Philip Keogh, Jason Byrne, Colin Tresson, Jodi Lynch
(Bray Wanderers), Barry Ryan, Clive Delaney (UCD), Derek O'Brien
Alan Murphy (Galway United), Paul McNally (Longford Town), Kevin
McHugh (Finn Harps), Gary Dempsey(Waterford United).
29/03/02
Harps
2 goodWith a meeting
with Kilkenny City set for next Saturday at Buckley Park,
Waterford United may reflect this week on their trip to
Ballybofey as three valuable points lost and a dent in their
promotion hopes. However, the four meetings this season between
these two sides saw both teams record unexpected away victories
and each score an expected home wins, leaving both sides winning
six points each, as would have been expected at the outset of
the eircom Division One League in August. The encounters between
“The Harps” and “The Blues” also produced a total of
seventeen goals in those four fixtures, the most dramatic being
Waterford United’s 5-0 home win at the RSC in November. The
difference in both defeats though was Kevin McHugh of Finn
Harps, who has shown his quality this season by clocking up 23
goals, earning him a four day trip this week to train with Aston
Villa’s first team at Bodymoor Heath under the watchful eye of
new Manager, Graham Taylor.
For Waterford United the long trip to Ballybofey saw a committed
team dominate the game in both halves but come away paying the
price for two lapses in concentration. The first coming only
after six minutes when eircom League Division One leading
scorer, Kevin McHugh, put Finn Harps into the lead. As a result
“The Blues” had to up a few gears for the rest of the first
half to stay in touch and were unlucky to see Noel Hunt’s shot
parried away by the Finn Harps keeper. Late in the half
Waterford United’s dead ball specialist, Gary Dempsey, saw his
effort come off the crossbar and back into the keeper hands just
in time for the half time whistle. The effort of “The Blues”
ensured some control in the game in the second half, which saw
another Noel Hunt effort disallowed by the referee. It was to
prove that kind of day for Waterford United.
Having watched Sligo Rovers lose out to Dublin City at the
Showgrounds on the previous night Saturday night, “The
Blues” squad were upbeat when travelling to Ballybofey and
expected to at least split the spoils. With give games now left
to play, Waterford United still have to travel to Dublin City,
Kilkenny and Cobh Ramblers and there are home games to Sligo
Rovers and Athlone Town. These games now take on a greater
significance for “The Blues” if the chase is to continue for
those top positions in the League.
“Of course it was disappointing to lose today,” said
Waterford United Manager, Jimmy McGeough, “But even if the
game had been 120 minutes long, the ball did not look like it
would go in for us today. In fairness, Gary Dempsey’s free
kick was superb and you would have put big money on Noel Hunt
scoring in a one on one against the keeper” he continued “It
just wasn’t to be and so we’ll do battle again next week at
Buckley Park.”
10/02/02
Blues Beat Limerick: In
a busy weekend of fixtures in the eircom league Division One,
Waterford United face the long trip to Ballybofey to play Finn
Harps on Sunday afternoon, boosted by their win against Limerick
last night at the RSC. The two sides were originally scheduled
to meet at the end of January but the bad weather at the time
made Finn Park unplayable and the game had to be re-arranged. In
the intervening weeks there has been little change to the
positions at the top of the table, except league leaders, Dublin
City, have opened up gap of three points with “The Blues”
and two points with Drogheda United. With most teams suffering
changes to their fixtures during the bad weather, it was Finn
Harps that maintained momentum with an impressive run in the FAI
Cup, which saw them beating Premier Division opponents,
Shelbourne in the 3rd round. Then in the quarterfinals they only
went out after a replay at Finn Park to Dundalk, also from the
Premier Division. This break in their eircom League fixtures has
given Finn Harps two games in hand, of which one is Sunday’s
fixture against Waterford United. For Waterford United the home
victory against Limerick on Thursday night was important given
that the visitors had reached the League Cup semi-final last
weekend, having beaten Premier opponents, Cork City, by one goal
to nil at Turners Cross. “The Blues” had gone into that home
game concerned with the enforced absence of three key players,
David Breen, David Whittle and John Frost, all of whom were
sidelined by suspensions. The outcome was three valuable which
closed the gap at the top of Division One to keep “The Blues”
promotion challenge alive.
“We were delighted with the win tonight” explained Waterford
United Manager, Jimmy McGeough, to the waiting press at the RSC
last night “It was not pretty to watch at times, but it was
solid and gutsy, which is important at this stage of the season.
We now travel to Finn Harps with another three points in the bag
and now can focus on what needs to be done on Sunday.”
The full squad will set off from Waterford on Saturday, resting
overnight within easy reach of Ballybofey in advance of Sunday’s
afternoon kick off. The only players unavailable is David Breen,
who is forced to miss a second game, and the team captain,
Brendan Rea, is doubtful as he is carrying a strain from last
night’s game against Limerick. The plan on Saturday evening is
for the squad to take in the match at The Showground’s between
Sligo Rovers and Dublin City, both of whom Waterford United have
to play once more before the end of the season.
The game against Finn Harps will kick off at 3:30pm at Finn
Park, Ballybofey.
----------------------------------
Following the extensive interest seen
by the original Waterford United web site, the club, in
conjunction with its sponsors Hegarty Computer Services and
Focus Media, has re-launched an updated version of
www.waterford-united.ie today ahead of the game against Limerick
FC in the RSC this evening.
After extensive cosmetic and content changes to the web site,
Waterford United are proud to re-launch this new detailed site.
It is now the best way for a United supporter to check results,
“meet the team” and find out any facts or figures about the
club.
Club Chairman Ger O’Brien said “We are delighted with the
new site and feel that it represents the new lease of life about
the club. We are now one of the only clubs in the first division
to host our own web site, this should help us, if not on the
pitch, with the corporate side of the club”.
The new web site will comprise of various different options,
including a detailed history of this legendary club, news about
the Faithlegg House Draw and the McDonalds soccer blitz, player
profiles, and various details about the club including the back
room staff, the ground and the clubs sponsors.
Waterford-united.ie also comprises of a number of links to
Waterford companies such as the Munster Express, The News &
Star, WLR, Waterford Crystal and United’s main supporters
clubs “Blue Till I Die” and “tubritt.net”. There are
also links to the Eircom League’s site and to the successful
soccer central web site.
The web site has a management system which allows Waterford to
sell merchandise and tickets on-line, this procedure will be in
operation the coming months.
10/02/02
Blues and McDonalds to host soccer blitz:
Following the success of last years soccer blitz, Waterford United and McDonald’s in Waterford have again come together to host the event on Good Friday. This will be the second tournament organised by Waterford United and will be targeting the under age groups even more this year.
Waterford United are delighted to be partnering McDonald’s given that last years tournament was attended by 800 participants, 600 of who were 16 and under. This year the committee are expecting over 1000 participants at the blitz, which will be held in the Regional Sports Centre, as a one day event comprising of various different team entries. The majority of the teams are made up of children from the ages of 10 to 16. There will also be various different categories for pub, student and employee teams.
Joe Byrne, Owner/Operator of McDonald’s in Waterford was very enthusiastic about the up coming event, “I am very excited about teaming up with Waterford United once again to re-establish the winning formula of the soccer blitz. It is a community based project with the emphasis on the kids, who McDonalds are always delighted to be involved with”.
The successful combination of these two organisations for the blitz will ensure that this event is one of the major highlights in the under age calendar in South East. Ger O’Brien, Waterford United’s Chairman commented “Our youth policy is one of the most important schemes we are to develop at the club, so obviously I was delighted that McDonald’s came on board to partner us again in this great competition”.
The tournament at the on Good Friday 29th March will bring to a conclusion a successful year for Waterford.
Application forms will be available from the Friday, 8th February 2002 from Waterford United, 15 Parnell St, Waterford and also at the Regional Sports Centre
7/02/02
Both Bosses Off as Blues Draw:
Waterford United failed to capitalise on a late sending off for Drogheda United last night and left the RSC with only one point, not only will the visitors be more satisfied with this point but so will Dublin City & Finn Harps our nearest rivals.A good crowd turned up to see the game which boiled over at the end with both managers having a go at each other after Tony Smith kicked out at a Drogs player who clearly should have been earlier penalised for holdng him back.Goals for Waterford came from Noel Hunt (really an O.G. but he deserved it) and a cracker of a free kick from Gary Dempsey from 25 yards.
4/02/02
Drogheda game on Thursday: Waterford
United expect to see action in the eircom League on Thursday
night at the RSC against Drogheda United, if the weather holds
up over the next two days. Since the arrival of new manager,
Jimmy McGeough, “The Blues” appearances have been restricted
to two competitive matches, the League Cup quarterfinal against
Derry City and an Under-21 Cup quarterfinal against Bray
Wanderers. With key games still left to play against other First
Division promotion contenders, Finn Harps and Dublin City, there
is a concern now about congestion of these fixtures and the time
needed to complete them before the end of the season. For
Waterford United there is also added concern about the impact
recent suspensions may have on availability of some key players
for these vital games. Although the mood in “The Blues” camp
is very good there is a strong desire to play the fixtures and
get back to defending that good run of results. “Obviously we
are concerned about losing the momentum we had up to a month
ago” said Waterford Manager, Jimmy McGeough, “But with the
new faces in the squad and the disappointing defeat to Derry,
there is a sharpness about our training that has impressed me
very much. But that really needs to be tested in real matches
and we have missed that in the past few days” “With Dublin
City now seven points clear in the Division from Finn Harps and
ourselves” he continued, “we need to make sure the games in
hand are turned into points. We know that Drogheda will want to
close the gap on Thursday night and beat us to keep them within
a point of Dublin City. So it’s now an even bigger game for
both sides”. The bad weather has affected all the top teams in
the eircom First Division, with Dublin City’s fixture against
Kilkenny City last night one of the few games to get played in
recent weeks. The “Vikings” victory now sees them move back
to the top of the table. In Waterford’s case the disruption
has given some key players the chance to rest and allowed some
good work on the training ground. With eight games left to play,
one of the immediate challenges is now the twice-postponed visit
of Drogheda United, who come to the RSC on the back of an
unbeaten run of ten games, with three wins and seven draws.
Similarly, “The Blues” recent runs shows eleven unbeaten
league games, of which six were outright victories. “The past
few weeks have been exciting and refreshing” said team
captain, Brendan Rea “It’s been a good boost to all of us to
have Jimmy at the club and in Waterford in general. Particularly
when you see the four weeks we have just had with all these
cancelled fixtures.” The game will kick off at the RSC at
7:30pm.
1/02/02
One in One Out: Waterford United completed their transfer dealings for the season when they secured the services of former St. Patrick Athletic midfielder, Padraig Drew. The agreement was made possible when “The Blues” accepted an offer for the former Cork City winger, Dave Moore, who has not commanded a regular place in the team in recent months. The arrival of Drew gives additional options on the left side for Waterford, where the objective in recent weeks has been to strengthen the midfield. Following the arrival of Tony Smith last week, and the return of Noel Hunt from Shamrock Rovers, the competition for places has increased and so the club acceded to Dave Moore’s request to be released before the transfer deadline expired. Waterford United’s next match is expected to be Sunday against Drogheda United, should the pitch at the RSC pass an inspection earlier that day.
25-1-02
Blues back in the Hunt
Waterford
United’s fixture against Derry City next Sunday,
January 27th has been confirmed by
League officials, given that cup games always take
precedence over league fixtures. Consequently, the
cancelled fixture tonight between Derry City and
St. Patrick’ s, which had been tentatively
rearranged for Sunday, has been deferred to
another date. “The Blues” league match against
Finn Harps will however be subject to a pitch
inspection at eight thirty on Saturday morning,
even though the pitch in Ballybofey is currently
considered playable. Regardless, Waterford United
plan to travel north tomorrow and should the
fixture be called off they will prepare for their
afternoon kick off in the Brandywell on Sunday
against Derry City. Late this evening, Noel Hunt,
returned to "The Blues" where he will
remain for the rest of the season despite his
midweek game for Shamrock Rovers against Longford
Town in the League Cup. He will therefore be
available for the vital league game at against
Finn Harps tomorrow night, should the fixture go
ahead“The
Blues” also signed twenty two year old Tony
Smith today from Belfast whose international
clearance came through this afternoon to the
Football Association of Ireland. In trying to
cover for the potential long term departure of
Noel Hunt, Waterford United acted quickly to find
cover in order to avoid weakening their attack,
following the recent arrival of Andy Myler and
Kelvin Flanagan“Having
seen Tony on trial at Tampa Bay Mutiny last
summer” said Waterford Manager, Jimmy McGoeugh
“We moved quickly in case Noel Hunt was leaving
us for good. Given that we also could not reach
agreement with Cork City this week for Colin
O’Brien I put in a call to Tony Smith
yesterday”Although
Cork City winger, Colin O’Brien, is available
for the Finn Harps game his loan period ends at
midnight on January 26th and with the
two clubs unable to reach agreement to extend his
stay until the end of the season, he will be
returning to Cork next week.“The
news from Rovers this evening about Noel Hunt has
been a great bonus” said WUFC Chairman, Ger
O’Brien, “The ruling last Wednesday suggested
he would not be able to come back to us following
his recall for their League cup match on
Wednesday. Thankfully, things became clearer this
afternoon and he will be travelling with us
tomorrow morning
19-1-02
Young Blues Progress:
Waterford United's 2 recent signings were on the mark on their first appearance in a Blue shirt today as the Blues U-21s saw off Bray Wanderers in the U-21 Cup in Jimmy McGeough's first game at the
RSC. Andy Myler opened the scoring from the spot after 25 minutes after he himself had been bundled over on the left hand side of the penalty area. Minutes before half time Myler was involved again this time flicking a beautiful backheel behind the Wanderers defence to send Joe Watson in on the keeper who he dutifully rounded before knocking the ball into the empty net. And just moments later the Blues other new signing Kelvin Flanagan got in on the act hitting a great strike into the corner of the Bray net from 20 yards. Almost inevitably having gone so far ahead the Blues were slow to start the second half and Bray pulled one back after the home defence were slow to react to a free kick from outside the left hand side of the box and the ball ended up in Paul Binder's net. The Blues defence continued to look shaky on crosses for the rest of the half but the visitors were limited to only a few half chances including a goal mouth scramble which ended in the ball striking Binder's left hand post and going wide. The Blues were unable to add to their first half lead despite good chances falling to Gary Dempsey, who shot wide after some neat passing around the Bray area, and Joey Watson, who robbed the keeper when he tried to beat him but was unable to keep the ball in play. The only downer of the afternoon was Kelvin Flanagan being carried off half way through the second with an ankle injury.
Blues Team: Binder, O'Brien, Frost,
K.Whittle, Leahy, Waters, Scully, Demsey, Flanagan, Myler, Watson. Subs: Moore for Scully, Fitzgerald for Flanagan, Heffernan for Watson.
18-1-02 League Cup Tie
Re-fixed:The
eircom League Cup Quarter-final against Derry
City, originally scheduled for Sunday January 20th
at the Brandywell, will now be played the day
after the eircom League match against Division One
promotion challengers, Finn Harps. The decision
was made by management at Waterfrod United given
that the alternative option was a midweek visit to
Derry, to be followed four days later with another
trip northwards to Finn Park. In order to avoid
such a schedule it was agreed to revise the
fixtures in this manner given that some players,
such as Noel Hunt and Kelvin Flanagan, will be cup
tied anyway for the Sunday match at the Brandywell.
"The Blues" will now stay overnight in
Ballybofey and travel to Derry for the League Cup
match on Sunday, January 27th at 3PM. The match
against Finn Harps will kick-off at Finn Park,
Ballybofey at 7:30PM.
18-1-02
Jimmy's First Game:The Waterford Regional Sports Centre is the scene for Jimmy McGeough’s return to Waterford when "The Blues" take on Bray Wanderers on Saturday 19th January at the RSC, where he will be directing the Under 21 team in the second round of the Eircom League Under 21 Cup. With Pat Devlin’s "Seagulls" in strong form it will be a welcome challenge for the new Waterford United Manager. It will also allow the new signings, such as Kelvin Flanagan and Andy Myler, play for the team for the first time since they were signed by the club. Given that the majority of the senior team are also under 21 it promises to be a very exciting clash at the RSC on Saturday. The match will kick off at 2PM.
12-1-02
Jimmy's Blue Army:Waterford
United Football Club have appointed former Blues hero, Jim
McGeough, as Manager and he will be introduced formally at
a press conference on Tuesday, January 15th in Waterford.
The enthusiasm and experience of the former Blues star,
along with his proven managerial pedigree at all levels
and particular experience in youth player development,
made him the ideal candidate to position Waterford United
for the future. His connections with past will also enable
McGeough revitalise those memories of the clubs great
heritage of the 60’s and 70’s, but more importantly,
he brings with him a fresh set of ideas and perspectives
from outside the eircom League, which at this time is
struggling to find its place in Irish soccer. Jim
McGeough’s proven experience in youth development and
proven ability in identifying talent over the years will
ensure that “The Blues” become a strong base for
soccer in the South East and in time be recognised as a
“centre of excellence” at all levels.
The discussions between the Board, along with other
advisers outside the club, clearly established that
McGeough’s achievements, added to that of his backroom
team, would achieve those longer-term objectives for the
club. Having lived in the United States for over twenty
years, McGeough brings to the League of Ireland some
strong credentials from the United States, where he was
involved both as a player, following his departure from
Waterford, and in more recent years as a Coach and
Manager. Since 1992 he has been a coach and selector for
the US Olympic Development teams and in 2001 was appointed
Assistant Coach at Tampa Bay Mutiny, following the
appointment of Alfonso Mondelo.
“In many ways I have never have really left Waterford”
enthused new manager, Jim McGeough, “This is a challenge
that really appealed to me and in my discussions with the
Board it was clear we all shared the same vision of
football and could all see great potential for Waterford
United.”
In completing the appointment the club has also recognised
the commitment of the acting managers, Brendan Rea and
Paul Scully, both of whom are to return to fulltime
playing roles this season given that the club is in the
running for possible promotion to the Premier Division. In
the case of Brendan Rea, the club has agreed a development
plan to ensure that his talents are committed to “The
Blues” for the foreseeable future and he will also be
involved in the management of the club to ensure he can
continue to have a day-today input on key decisions. The
responsibilities of Giles Cheevers, the former goal keeper
coach, have been extended to the full squad and along with
the club management he is currently devising a plan to
identify the key areas in training, fitness and coaching
that need further development in the future to ensure that
Waterford United incorporates all “best practices” in
the team’s physical preparation.
“This is a great opportunity for Waterford United to
finally get the past and the present united” said a
delighted Ger O’Brien, Chairman of WUFC plc “To have
someone like Jimmy willing to give the effort to see this
club try to get up from this division says a lot about his
competitive spirit! We are sure that he still has many
friends in Waterford who will undoubtedly help him in his
new role.”
McGeough, a native of Belfast, Northern Ireland, spent six
years as a player in England with Sheffield Wednesday
(1962-67) before transferring to the League of Ireland to
play with Derry F.C. (1968) and Waterford F.C. (1969-74).
At Sheffield Wednesday, Jim McGeough scored 71 career
goals, and was part of the 1965-66 side that finished
runner-up to Tottenham Hotspur in the First Division. With
Derry F.C., McGeough earned both league and cup titles in
1968 and was part of four championship teams with
Waterford F.C. from 1969 to 1974. During his career he
played many representative games both for the Irish League
and League of Ireland, and has played against
international superstars such as Pele, Eusebio and George
Best in his time.
When McGeough moved to the United States he started out as
a player / manager with the New York Apollo of the
American Soccer League (ASL) in 1976, winning the
championship title two years later. In 1980, McGeough won
another ASL title with New York United before later
assuming duties with the New York Nationals. During his
time in the ASL McGeough won Manager of the Year title
twice, the first time at New York Apollo and for the
second when he was at New York United. He also doubled as
an assistant for the New York Arrows of the Major Indoor
Soccer League (MISL), helping them to three straight MISL
titles between 1980 and 1982
McGeough moved into the college ranks in 1988 at SUNY-Farmingdale,
where in 11 seasons he posted a 121 games played, with 94
wins and only 8 losses record, including a Region 5 title
in 1988 and a runner-up finish in 1989. Following his
stint with the Rough Riders, McGeough spent two seasons as
head coach of the Brooklyn Knights of the United Soccer
Leagues (USL) Premier Development League (PDL) before
moving to the Hota Bavarians for the 2000 campaign. During
2001 he was also appointed Assistant Coach at Tampa Bay
Mutiny until the fulltime appointment of Perry Van Der
Beck late last year. Only last week the Major League
Soccer contracted their league and eliminated two of the
Florida franchises from the 2002 series, including Tampa
Bay Mutiny
.
5-1-01
Blues add more firepower:In an effort to build on their current form, Waterford United
F.C. had their offer for Andy Myler accepted by Athlone Town this weekend and he has joined "The Blues" for an undisclosed sum. Andy Myler joined Athlone Town in the summer of 2000 and soon began finding the net at what would prove to be a record-breaking rate. His scoring feats included a hat trick in an away game with Drogheda, the first hat trick scored by an Athlone Town player since Padraig Dully hit Galway United for three in 1991. By February of that year, Myler had reached the 23-goal mark, equalling the club's goal scoring record, set by Eugene Davis in the 1980/81. He surpassed that record two months later and finished a fantastic season with 27 league goals, and more in other competitions including a memorable couple in the first leg of Athlone's promotion play-off with his old club
UCD. At the end of the season he was named First Division "Player of the Year" by both the Eircom League and the
PFAI, while also receiving the Player of the Year trophy from Athlone Town
F.C.
"We have been looking around for some time for a striker and in signing Andy Myler we are adding someone with proven goal scoring ability to our squad." explained Rossa McDermott, WUFC plc Director, "In this last round of games it will be a very tight battle and we need to make sure every effort in front of goal counts if we are to fulfil our title dreams this season."
Originally from Dublin, Andy Myler played his schoolboy football with St. Kevin's Boys before joining University College Dublin
(UCD) on a Soccer Scholarship, where he enjoyed four years at Belfield, helping the students to the First Division Championship in 1994/95. He also won a Leinster Senior Cup medal with UCD in 1996, beating Athlone Town in a penalty shoot-out in the final. Myler then left UCD to join Newry Town in the Irish League and again helped the Mourne men to win the First Division Championship and having attracted attention again he then joined Monaghan United and was top scorer that season finding the net 17 on occasions. He has a proven eye for goal and is a big man who holds the ball up well bringing other players into the game.
.
4-1-01
Blues top table:The Blues are top of the eircomleague first division after a win over a very unconvincing Cobh side consisting of former strikers Donal "donuts" Golden and Jason "KVI" Kabia. Noel Hunt scored his 3rd goal in as many games from a familiar source, His Head. This means the Blues go top but have played 2 games more then all their close rivals.Kelvin Flanagan was presented to the fans at half time as our latest signing, but who is signing all these players, is it hinting towards Rea taking over for good or do the board control who signs for the club.
7-1-01
League Cup Date Confirmed:Waterford United’s next match is the League Cup Quarter Final against Derry City at The Brandywell on January 20th and the next Eircom League game will be in Ballybofey on January 26th against Finn Harps.
3-1-01
Blues Continue Unbeaten Run:In
thirteen matches Waterford United have experienced only one
defeat and that was a last minute goal against Kilkenny City in
the FAI Carlsberg Cup at Buckley Park a few weeks ago. In the
Eircom League “The Blues” have not been beaten since the
visit to Whitehall in October, when a rampant Dublin City scored
three goals in the second half to emerge victors 3-1. Since that
night, Waterford United have gone on to record five wins and
five draws in the League, leaving them joint second in the
Eircom First Division with Drogheda United and Finn Harps, as
well as qualifying for the quarter finals of the League Cup.
This consistent run contrasts significantly with the opening
games in the 2001 / 2002 League campaign, which showed four
losses in the first seven games. The most recent victory,
against Sligo Rovers last Saturday night, maintains the momentum
on the chase for automatic promotion place to the Premier
Division. “The run of form is great at the moment” said a
delighted Brendan Rea, Waterford United Manager, after the win
at the Showgrounds in Sligo “The lads are very motivated to
winning every one of our last ten remaining games. We all want
very much to get Waterford United back to the top flight of the
National League.” Off the field the preliminary discussions
have been conducted in the past few weeks for the position of
Manager with various interested parties, some of whom are
currently under contract and a shortlist of candidates has been
drawn up. Following that the club will make final decisions
regarding the additional back room staff needed, including
fitness trainers, physiotherapists and Under-21 Coach. The
appointment of Giles Cheevers as Coach has also been completed
and in his new role at the club his responsibilities have been
increased beyond his original goalkeeping coach, prior to his
resignation. “Given the success of the structures that were
put into place in the past month” explained Ger O’Brien,
WUFC Chairman “We have been under no pressure to make hasty
decisions that may not be right for the club in the long term.
During the past few weeks the Board, along with Brendan Rea and
Paul Scully, have deemed it a priority to strengthen the side to
ensure we do the utmost for this next run of games.” Noel Hunt
joined Waterford United on loan from Shamrock Rovers and has
scored two goals in two games
28-12-01
3rd Place BluesWaterford United tonight moved to third place in the eircom League first division, level on points with second place Drogheda, after a 2-1 victory over Sligo Rovers at the
Showgrounds. In a game where Rovers dominated possession, it was on loan striker Noel Hunt who opened the scoring with a back post header from a Wayne Fitzgerald cross on 31 minutes. It's his secind goal in as many games since joining the previously goal shy Blues. United doubled their lead on 53 minutes when David Whittle converted a penalty after Gary Dempsey had been fouled. Sligo made it a nervy last 20 minutes when Rafael Cretaro scored on 71 minutes but despite their pressure, which included a John Frost goal line clearance, the Blues held out to keep their promotion hopes well and truly alive.
22-12-01
Early Christmas present from Rovers:Waterford United have signed Richie Parsons(Bray Wanderers) and Noel Hunt(Shamrock Rovers) on loan. Parsons shall remain until the end of the season while Hunt has only been signed for a month, both players are a welcome addition to the managerless squad who desperately need a
regular goalscorer after some farcical performances from some of our strikers so far this season.
11-12-01
Blues to Face Derry In Legue Cup:eircom
League Cup holders St Pat’s have been drawn against Bohemians
in the quarter-final of this season’s competition.
Monday’s draw also paired Cork against Limerick, Derry host
Waterford and Shamrock Rovers have home advantage against
Longford.
Dates for the ties have yet to be arranged, but they are
expected to be played late next month sometime.
11-12-01 Super
House Draw Details:The following are the details of the campaign:
(a) Launch Date: December 12th, 2001 at The Tower Hotel, Waterford at 9PM. The Super Draw will take place on the 26th June 2002 and there will be six monthly draws up until that date.
(b) Limited Draw: The draw will be limited to 5000 tickets at price of 150 Euros per ticket.
(c) Ticket Sale Area: Mainly Southern Ireland and to parts of UK & U.S.A. & Europe.
(d) Promotion Methods: Radio, newspapers, local TV, magazines, internet, shopping mall promotions, direct mail, match programmes, match hoarding advertising, word of mouth, hotels, lounge bars and public buildings.
(e) Radio: Interviews and advertising on WLR. Interviews on all local radio stations in Waterford, Kilkenny, Tipperary, Carlow and Wexford.
(f) Newspapers: Promotional space in Waterford News & Star, Munster Express, Waterford Today, Irish Examiner, possibly Irish Independent, Irish Times, Sunday Business Post and other regional papers.
(g) Local T.V.: Feature in “Waterford at 8”.
(h) Magazines: Sports magazines and newspaper supplement magazines.
(i) Internet: Full details on www.waterford-united.ie website including on-line ticket purchase.
The office staff of Waterford United F.C. will in conjunction with the Super Draw Committee control the arrangements of this entire programme. A separate new bank account has been opened in T.S.B. Bank, Waterford. Mr. Ger McGinn (Accountant) a member of the Super Draw organising committee will continually monitor all the financial aspects of this entire programme.
Ticket payment can be arranged via easy pay direct debit system or visa, cheque, cash, internet, fax, phone or by calling into Waterford United F.C., 15 Parnell Street, Waterford.
07-12-01 Rea
and Scully in charge: Following last nights shock resignation of Paul Power as Blues manager, it has been confirmed that the clubs two most senior players-Brendan Rea and Paul Scully-have accepted the management responsibilities for tomorrow nights game against league leaders Dublin City. “The focus here is on the game tomorrow” explained Brendan Rea “I have talked to the lads and they are all up for it. At the moment we are in with a great chance to get back to the Premier Division and we will ready for Dublin City tomorrow night.” Meanwhile chairman Ger O'Brien has said he will "sit down with the Board on Monday, when everyone’s head has cleared, and see where we go from here." O'Brien also revealed that Power's decision followed requests from the board to cut back some of his backroom staff and consider selling one or two players he hadn't been using in recent months as part of the club’s efforts to meet the need to save some Ł3,000 per week. O'Brien added "we didn’t even get to discussing it. He just came in and said they were leaving." He also expressed a hope that the FAI's football development plan due to be released on Monday will contain schemes to help clubs like Waterford saying "fans are sick and tired of hearing clubs complain - they just want to see success on the pitch; so if the league can’t come up with some kind of package we’re not going to attract new supporters. Here in Waterford we have a hardcore group of about 1,500 fans. I’m delighted with them, but, to be honest, that just about covers the cost of staging a match. I’m not saying the whole thing’s about to collapse here. What I’m saying is we have to get sensible."
6-12-01 Club in turmoil as PP quits: Paul Power last night resigned as manager of Waterford United along with all his backroom staff, Paddy Ryan, Giles Cheevers, Paul Cashin and Jason Bowman. The club have this morning isued a press release confirming PP's departure, saying "This surprise decision was notified to the club yesterday without any prior notice or warning". Power gave no particular reason for his departure and leaves following a run of 8 games unbeaten and apparently having reached an agreement on his future at the start of the month. Chairman Ger O'Brien said "This is a very disappointing development for the club...[and they were]shocked at the decision" O'Brien continued saying that "the next 10 days are important for us and the players, Micheal Walsh and directors will get on with the business of playing and hope to extend our unbeaten run against Dublin City". The club will release a statement on a new manager as soon as a decision has been made.
26-11-01 Cup draw throws up local derby: The draw for the FAI Cup was made this evening at the Citywest Hotel in Dublin and paired the Blues with Kilkenny City. The tie will be played in Buckley Park on the week-ending December 16th. The teams were drawn by Irish under 21 manager Don Givens and former Irish international Paul McGrath. Other ties of note saw Cork City given a home tie with Shamrock Rovers while Longford will host Bohs in a repeat of last years final.
26-11-01 Wood you believe it: The Blues recent good run of form continued today in Jackman Park
as they put their last visit to Limerick behind
them and eventually ran out 4-3 winners after twice going
behind. Goals from Joey Watson, Gary Dempsey and a penalty from David Whittle meant that it was 3-3 after 90 minutes but then in stoppage time a ball played over the top found Barry Wood who slid it past the onrushing keeper from all of 35 yards.
26-11-01 Evening with Ian St John postponed: The Board of Management of Waterford United Football Club, in conjunction with the "Waterford News & Star", have elected to postpone the Club's Christmas Gala Dinner planned for November 30 at the Tower Hotel. The evening was planned to provide an opportunity for players, club officials, sponsors and supporters to prepare for the Christmas season will now be rescheduled for the New Year. Companies and individuals who booked tables have been contacted and further details will be released when a new date has been confirmed.
26-11-01 Cup draw tonight: The draw for the second round of the Carlsberg FAI Cup will take place tonight at 6.40 and will be covered live on RTE's 6.1 news. Details of the draw will be available on this site as soon as it happens.
20-11-01 Moore of the same please: The Blues tonight progressed to the quarter finals of the eircom League Cup following a 2-0 victory over Drogheda United. The sides had played out 3 draws aleady this season so it was no surprise when the first half failed to produce a goal with little or no chances for either side, and the second half looked destined to end the same way, that was until David Moore entered the fray as a second half substitute for Kevin Whittle. Moore who was dropped to make way for new signing Colin O'Brien recently despite playing some of his best football since signing sent a clear message to boss Paul Power by grabbing to goals in 10 minutes to send the Blues through. The first came on 75 minutes when he picked the ball up from Woody and shot left footed from the edge of the box, and he repeated the feat 10 minutes later again sending a beautiful left footed strike low into the net from the right hand side of the area. Moore has really pushed his claims for a place in the starting line-up in Limerick on Sunday and it will surely be difficult for PP to leave him out.
14-11-01 Saint agrees to join the Blues: In joining Waterford United for the evening Ian St John will share some insights into those great days at Anfield under their ultra competitive manager, Bill Shankly, who in signing St John had the club pay double the previous sum ever approved by the Liverpool Board for a player. "The Saint" quickly justified his record transfer fee in 1961 of Ł37,500 from Motherwell by scoring a hat trick in his first match against local rivals, Everton. He went on to become a regular at Liverpool with a total of 424 appearances and 118 goals. On leaving Liverpool he joined Coventry City where he also started his football management career. He later moved to other clubs including Motherwell, Portsmouth and Sheffield Wednesday. "Obviously we are delighted that Ian has agreed terms with us "explained Waterford United Chairman, Ger O'Brien "he will be an important addition to the team in what promises to be a very enjoyable evening".The evening will kick off with a Champagne reception at 8:00pm, followed by a four course meal, complimentary wine, celebrity guest speaker and live music from Brass & Co. For ticket and sponsorship information please contact Ivan Whelan at Waterford United FC Tel (051)-853-222 or Optimum Sports Marketing (01) 283-5414
12-11-01 Blues travel club bus to Drogheda: The Blues Travel Club are running a bus to Fridays clash with new league leaders Drogheda in United Park. The Bus will leave the Gratton Bar,The Quay at 3pm and the cost is Ł15. Anyone interested can contact Tubby at tubby@eircom.net or phone 087-6302078
11-11-01 U-21s follow seniors lead: The Blues U-21 side followed the example set out by their senior counterparts on Friday night by beating the league leader on Saturday afternoon. Jason Bowman's charges who have lost only once all season beat table toppers Cobh Ramblers by 2 goals to 1 at the RSC with Joe Watson grabbing both goals. The young Blues now leap-frog their visitors and move to the top of the table.
09-11-01
Harps hit for 5 in the RSC: Blues fans
roared their team onto an outstanding victory in the RSC
tonight. The worries of the past week were left behind as the
blues left the harps behind. Two goals came from new loan
signing Colin O'Brien, one a piece from Paul Leahy and goal
machine Gary Dempsey and David Whittle added a second half
penalty to complete the rout.
08-11-01Power
still manager in a world gone mad:
BTID has learned through a
Waterford United press release that Paul Power is still manger
the full press release read "Further to a meeting today
Paul Power has agreed to accept the new responsibilities of
First Team Manager as outlined to him by the Board earlier this
week. In an effort to position this club for the future some
internal changes had been discussed over the past few weeks to
strengthen Waterford United Football Club for the future. The
Club have been looking at all resources in order to maximise the
in-house skills needed to go forward. As a result, Paul Power
has agreed to the new responsibilities also recognising that
there maybe a need to add more expertise to the Club’s
management in the future. “We have always believed that the
right people were in the right place making the right decisions
at the club” said Rossa McDermott, WUFC plc Director “The
events of this week never really put those views in question”.
“I am much clearer now about the requirements the Board have
for my role within Waterford United” explained Paul Power
“It was unfortunate that they entered the public arena given
the unnecessary damage to the image of this great club”.
“There is no monopoly on the passion for football in Waterford
or for this club” said Ger O’Brien, Chairman of WUFC plc
“and having worked at this club with no pay for a year and a
half just trying to keep it alive, this week has been one of the
lowest points for me and my family”. “Throughout the week
the club has been conducting its affairs as normal despite the
understandable media interest” said McDermott, “Fortunately
the distractions have been limited and following a meeting
between the board, the back room staff and the players last
night all minds are now focussed on the crucial match against
Eircom First Division League Leaders, Finn Harps on Friday
night”. The match kicks off at the Regional Sports Centre at
7:30PM"
06-11-01 No news
until tomorrow:
BTID has learned through a
Waterford United press release that after a meeting between the
board of WUFC plc and manager Paul Power this afternoon it was
agreed that there would be an additional meeting on Thursday
morning November 8th after which the club plan to issue a
detailed statement, view the first statement here
Earlier it had been confirmed that Power has been offereda
coaches role at the club believedto be on the same salary as he
is currently receiving, however it is thought that he will not
accept this offer. All the uncertainty surrounding the club
cannot be helping the players in their preparation for Friday
nights match against league leaders Finn Harps.
06-11-01 Powers
position uncertain:
Courtesy of wlrfm.com:"
The future of Waterford United's manager Paul Power remains in
doubt today due to what the club say are internal administrative
problems. Chairman of WUFC Ger O'Brien said he was not prepared
to comment on the detail of what was at issue and was
disappointed that this had been leaked to WLRFM News. He said
the problem was not football or results related, but was an
internal matter down to procedures. One of the questions he said
was whether Paul Power will be manager long term at Waterford
United. Paul Power said he had a meeting with the board and was
awaiting a response to that discussion. He said that as far as
he was concerned he was still the manager of Waterford United,
but added that this was a sad day for Waterford football
and from ireland.com
Waterford United this afternoon
firmly denied that manager Paul Power has left the club. Rumours
were rife this morning that the former Kilkenny city boss had
parted company with the eircom First Division side after a
disagreement with the club’s directors over how players should
be disciplined. "There is an issue between Paul Power and
the directors" a spokesperson for the club confirmed to
ireland.com, "but Paul has not been sacked - he is still
the manager. The matter is an internal one and will be sorted
out accordingly."
06-11-01 Power
sensationally sacked: Paul
Power has been sacked as manager of Waterford United. It is
believed(but unconfirmed)that this has happened after a bust up
with director Rossa MacDermot over discipline. It is thought
MacDermot wants players to pay their own fines for yellow cards
but Power disagreed and he is now gone,it is not known if he was
sacked or left but according to our sources he met with the
players last night telling them that he would probably be sacked
and was considering leaving.
02-11-01 League
Cup 2nd round draw made: The
draw for the second round of the league cup has handed the Blues
a tricky tie at home to high flying Drogheda United on Tuesday
20th November. There are 3 ties in this round and 5 teams
received byes to round 3. The other ties see Longford Town host
UCD and St.Pats visit Sligo Rovers.
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