A successful 2018 when Alan Reynolds and his Blues were promoted into the top tier and these finished in a whooping third place, despite last season it wasn’t too prolific, but Reynolds managed to avoid disaster.
With a sixth spot finish in the end and with a strong finish, the Blues managed to stay put in the Republic of Ireland Premier Division for another season, after losing their top playmaker Zach Elbouzedi to League One side Lincoln.
Now the tables have turned for this club top directives looking forward to building a contender in netting important players in the offseason and for its manager looking for a run into the top spots if possible.
This comes after club owner Lee Power stated his commitment with the club and moving forward.
So far, the club has gone to assure the return of several players of its 2019 base, with forward Dean Walsh, midfielder Shane Griffin, midfielder John Martin to new contracts and promoting U-17 midfielder Darragh Power.
In addition of giving manager Alan Reynolds an extension, the club also has gone in the task of getting new faces to come to RSC and see this club return to its old form like in 2018 when these assure a European spot.
New faces of the likes of goalkeeper Tadgh Ryan (Coventry), defender Kevin O’ Connor on loan from (Preston North End), midfielder Scott Allardice (Bohemians), forward Graham Cummins (Cork City), midfielder Sam Bone on loan (Shamrock Rovers).
Recently the Blues have announced the arrival of U-21 international midfielder Robbie McCourt who along Will Fitzgerald will make dynamite duo in Waterford midfield, to add a new striker in Michael O’ Connor coming on loan from NIFL side Linfield.
It certainly looks that Waterford is committed to displaying a new season for its followers that last season abandoned the stands in RSC and after its owner commitment of excellence and promising to build a contender.
Still, nothing is written as 2020 promises to be another contested season in the LOI and for all its teams building to contend and dethrone the likes of Dundalk entering as the defending champions.
In the end, if Waterford displays a good season maybe a fourth spot finish will be considered positive but never discount the way this club surprised us in 2018 and with the potential to make a decorous run in the end.
A fourth-place finish is something I forecast for the Blues.
* Correction Zack Elbouzedi went to English side League One Lincoln not Linfield, my apologies.
Post Contents and Property of Fern Mc Costigan © Copyright All Rights Reserved
Post Contents and Property of Fern Mc Costigan © Copyright All Rights Reserved
Photos Credit, Property and Courtesy of © Waterford Football Club 2020
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