Waterford suffered their third straight defeat in Division 4 of the Allianz National Football league as thirteen man Derry prevailed by 2-12 to 1-8 at a windy Fraher Field this afternoon.
A goal by Sean Whelan Barrett on 12 minutes and a brace from Conor Murray helped the hosts into a four point lead with the elements. Shane McGuigan fired to the roof of the net to level matters at 1-5 apiece by half time.
The sides were level on three occasions during the second period. Derry were a point up when Jason Rocks and Conor McAtamney were dismissed on second bookable offences. Waterford couldn't capitalise however as a breakaway goal by corner back Paul O'Neill sealed a third win of the campaign for the Oak Leaf men.
Deise manager Benji Whelan admitted that it was a missed opportunity.
He said that turnovers proved costly when they chased the win in the closing stages.
Despite the defeat, the Kilmacthomas man felt that it was their best performance of the season so far.
Referee Seamus Mulhare issued twelve yellows and two reds and Whelan was close to a flare-up in the Waterford dugout during the second half.
Tommy Prendergast and Fearghal O Cuirrin came off at half time as they make their way back to full fitness.
Waterford have a two week break before they travel to Wexford in round 4. Whelan has two challenge matches lined up.
