Waterford FC captain Kenny Browne has spoken of his delight after the club was promoted to the Premier Division with two games remaining. The Blues picked up three points last Friday night against Wexford, before second-placed Cobh Ramblers were defeated on Saturday to see the Blues seal promotion to the Premier Division for the 2018 season.
“I felt we played reasonably well in Wexford especially in the first half. Some of the lads were really good in that game especially Mark O’Sullivan, John Martin and Paul Keegan.
“I love playing with Paul because he gives us a new dimension and he takes a lot of pressure off us playing in defence. He can read a game superbly and I suppose he was the player who we needed to get the job done come the vital stage of the season.
“I could have stayed at Cork City but I knew that there was something exciting here when Lee Power and Pat Fenlon came on board and I wanted to be part of it all. I’ve always had a good relationship with Alan Reynolds and he was another reason why I wanted to come back.
“I really thought we would have to beat Longford Town to win the league or at least draw with them but then I got the news that Cabinteely had beaten Cobh Ramblers and I have to admit I was surprised by the result. To be honest I am delighted because Neal Fenn is doing a super job and it wouldn’t have been an easy game.
“We can now play them without any fear and hopefully we will turn on the style and make it a game to remember for the fans who have been brilliant all season. I have won league and cup titles with a few clubs in the Premier League but nothing beats winning honours with your hometown club and the medal I will get for winning this league will be right up there with all of the others.
“The players we had in the squad this season have been amazing and every single one of them bought into what we were doing. I have played with clubs like Cork City, St Patrick’s Athletic and Sporting Fingal but none of them could match the training facilities we have here.
“The professional attitude at the club is first class and all in all it’s been a great campaign. We did hit a few bumps along the way but we always bounced back and now it’s been all worthwhile and we’re over the moon that we’ve got the job done.
“Needless to say, all thoughts will now turn to the Premier League and I have no doubt that Alan, Pat and Lee will once again do what they have to bring in players.to keep us competitive. I am looking forward to next season already and I am proud to have played a role in our promotion.”