There was a real sense of occasion today as I made my way from Waterford city to the Aviva Stadium. Along the route, I saw jerseys and fans, while social media was filled with lovely messages following the send-off the team received yesterday.

This morning has been emotional. Waterford city and county could do with some positivity, and silverware would be wonderful. But to be Club Orange FAI Cup winners in 2026, after being described as relegation favourites, would mean so much more.

No wins in the first 14 games. No team in League of Ireland history had survived after such a start. But we did. Graham Coughlan and Waterford FC did. That sums up this group, this city, this county and this club.

Being from Waterford means living in hope that one day you’ll see the blue and white lift a trophy on a big day.

And it’s always the hope that kills us. But heading to the Aviva today, there’s a feeling that this might just be that day.

To borrow a line from The Saw Doctors: to win just once.

As a sports journalist and a Waterford person, I’ve never seen that day. Is today the day? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: we are immensely proud and grateful for the joy and pride Graham and everyone at the club have given us this season. They’ve made us smile, cry, and feel so much more at a time when we needed hope.

A blue light has shone from the RSC.

Come on the Blues!

WLR’s live coverage begins at 2.30 pm, with Ray Scott, former Waterford manager Tommy Griffin, and Blues legend Pascal Keane bringing listeners all the action, with thanks to John Murphy Carpets

Competition: Club Orange FAI Cup Final 2026

Kick-off – 3:00 pm

Venue: Aviva Stadium, Dublin.

Waterford FC v Derry City – Live on WLR

Waterford FC Coverage on WLR is thanks to John Murphy Carpets

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