David Breen knows exactly what it means to represent Waterford FC in an FAI Cup Final, having felt the heartbreak of the Blues’ 2004 defeat.
Now part of the club’s coaching staff, Breen is hoping the current Waterford side can go one step further when they face Derry City in the Club Orange FAI Cup Final at the Aviva Stadium on Sunday, November 8.
Breen was part of the Waterford team that reached the final 22 years ago, during a memorable season under player-manager Alan Reynolds, with former Republic of Ireland international Paul McGrath also involved at the club.
He remembers the excitement around that campaign, with the arrival of Rennie and McGrath attracting significant attention and sparking real optimism around Waterford.
The build-up to the final was something special, with players travelling to Dublin the day before and getting the opportunity to familiarise themselves with Lansdowne Road ahead of the occasion.
However, the memories of the match itself remain difficult.
Waterford took the lead early in the second half through Willie Bruton, following a flick-on from Darren Murphy, but St Patrick’s Athletic fought back to win 2-1.
Breen believes Waterford could have done more to prevent the equaliser, admitting that too many players stopped when a second ball entered the pitch, rather than playing to the whistle.
It is a defeat that has stayed with him throughout his career.
He says the disappointment of losing a final is something that never really leaves a footballer, but he now hopes his experience can help the current group prepare for their own big day.
Breen believes the present squad has shown tremendous character to reach the final, particularly given the improvement in the team’s performances over the course of the season.
He also highlighted the experience within the dressing room, pointing to players who have already played in major cup finals, including Tommy Lonergan, who scored in St Patrick’s Athletic’s 3-1 final victory.
That experience could prove important, particularly for a young Waterford squad preparing for one of the biggest occasions in the club’s recent history.
The level of support expected in Dublin is another major source of encouragement.
Breen estimates that around 20,000 Waterford supporters could be in attendance, a significant increase on the estimated 4,000 who travelled to the 2004 final.
He says the backing from supporters, particularly on away trips throughout the season, has been outstanding and believes their presence can give the players an important lift.
Now working on the coaching staff, Breen admits it will be difficult watching from the sidelines rather than being out on the pitch.
He says the preparation can only go so far, with the players ultimately having to deliver once the referee blows the whistle.
Breen also explained how much the game has changed since his playing days, with greater use of analysis and technology helping the coaching staff assess performances and make decisions.
However, he does not believe the size of the Aviva Stadium pitch should affect Waterford’s approach against Derry.
He wants the team to continue playing with the intensity and aggression that has brought them success, rather than changing their style for the occasion.
With Waterford chasing their first FAI Cup triumph since 1980, Breen is hoping his own experience of 2004 can be followed by a much happier memory this time around.
For a man who has already experienced the disappointment of coming so close, there is now the opportunity to help a new generation of Blues bring the trophy home.
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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