Waterford United 2-2 Derry City | Ireland Premier Division

Waterford United and Derry City played out a thrilling 2-2 draw at the RSC on May 16, 2026. The points were shared after a match that swung back and forth, leaving both sets of fans with plenty to debate.

How the Game Unfolded

Derry City struck first in the 12th minute. A well‑worked corner found Patrick McEleney unmarked at the far post, and he headed home with ease. Waterford responded well, and their equaliser came through a moment of individual brilliance from Jack Brady, who cut onto his right foot and curled a shot into the top corner from outside the box.

The second half saw Waterford take the lead for the first time. A penalty was awarded after a handball in the box, and Kevin O’Brien calmly sent the goalkeeper the wrong way in the 63rd minute.

Late Drama

Derry City refused to buckle. With ten minutes remaining, substitute Michael Duffy latched onto a through ball and fired low past the Waterford keeper to make it 2-2. Both sides pushed for a winner in the closing stages, but clear chances were rare as defences tightened.

Table Implications

The draw leaves Waterford in sixth place, just outside the European places, while Derry City remain in the top four. For Waterford, it was a missed opportunity to climb the standings, but the performance showed they can compete with the league's stronger sides. Derry will be relieved to have salvaged a point on the road.