Waterford FC welcomed Bohemians FC to the RSC for what promised to be an entertaining clash in the League of Ireland Premier Division. With both sides eager to build momentum early in the season, there was a strong atmosphere building around the ground as supporters took their seats under the lights at the RSC. The Blues looked to maintain their unbeaten record at home so far, whereas the Dubliners were looking to build on their huge win over Shamrock Rovers last week.
Bohemians began the match on the front foot, carrying the confidence of their unbeaten start to the campaign. With Waterford still searching for their first win of the season, the visitors dominated possession early and looked dangerous through Ross Tierney and Connor Parsons in attacking areas.
The breakthrough came in the 18th minute. A well-delivered set piece from Dayle Rooney caused problems inside the Waterford penalty area, and centre-back Sam Todd reacted quickest to finish and put Bohs 1–0 ahead.
Jon Daly’s side responded with a spell of pressure before the break. Strikers Pádraig Amond and Tom Lonergan tried to stretch the Bohs defence, while midfielder Conan Noonan attempted to drive the team forward. However, the visitors remained well organised at the back and took their one-goal advantage into half-time.
The home side made several changes at the interval in an attempt to shift momentum. The Blues pressed higher up the pitch and enjoyed more possession as the second half developed. Chances from Lonergan and Noonan gave the home faithful some optimism.
Despite their efforts, Bohemians continued to look dangerous on the counterattack. Tierney and Parsons both threatened to double the lead, while Dawson Devoy helped control the midfield battle.
Waterford goalkeeper Stephen McMullan was called into action on a few occasions to keep the deficit at one, but the home side struggled to create clear chances against a disciplined Bohs defence.
As the match entered the closing stages, Waterford pushed men forward in search of an equaliser. Long balls into the box and late pressure created a tense finish, but Bohemians held firm to secure all three points.
With the second half being a much better showing for the Blues, positives can be taken as focus shifts to back to back away games at Dundalk and Galway next weekend.
Waterford FC: McMullan (GK); Heeney (90′ McLaughlin), Cann, Mahon, Couto (46′ Dempsey); Barrett (46′ McMenamy), Noonan, Coyle (46′ Mansfield), Voilas; Amond (C) (61′ Carty), Lonergan.
Bohemian FC: Chorazka (GK); Power (90′ Morahan), Todd, Hickey, Flores; McDonnell, Devoy, Parsons (73′ Mullen), Tierney, Rooney (73′ Diallo); Whelan (84′ Martin).
Attendance: 2,683.
