Waterford FC manager Alan Reynolds has praised his side after the Blues were guaranteed a top 4 finish and a Europa League spot for 2019.
The Blues’ European spot was confirmed on Monday after the FAI Cup final line-up was confirmed with Cork City taking on Dundalk. That has meant that the final European spot now goes to the 4th place team.
“For ourselves, it’s been a massive week. When the coaching staff and I came in two years ago, we wanted to build something in this club and to see where we are today gives everybody around the club a lot of pride.
“A big aim for this club was to get back to the glory days and make history for ourselves and to secure a Europa League spot for next season is a dream come true for so many people around this club including myself. It’s been by no means easy, but it’s fantastic for this group of players and staff to be able to deliver this to the club and fans.
It’s a while away yet and we’re 100% focussing on the present for now.”
While thrilled with the European spot and 4th place, Reynolds is keen to push his players to look for 3rd position with three games left.
“Winning the First Division in the first season was fantastic and to be where we are today, guaranteed at least a top 4 finish in our first season back in the Premier Division, really is special.
“We’ve had more ups than downs this season but we’ve all stuck together as a group and we’ve got the deserved rewards for that. And we’re not finished yet. We might be guaranteed a top 4 finish, but we’re going to keep pushing for the third place.”