Burns' 69th-minute strike secures Derry City's seventh FAI Cup

Derry City won the FAI Cup for the seventh time in their history, defeating Waterford 1-0 in a final played at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.

The decisive moment arrived in the 69th minute when Darragh Burns scored the only goal of the match. Burns, a 24-year-old winger, received the ball on the right side, moved inward to his preferred left foot, and beat goalkeeper Stephen McMullan with a low finish. This goal marked Burns' first since returning to the club from a second stint in England in July.

Waterford controlled possession for much of the second half, relying on the midfield influence of Noah Mawene and Evan McLaughlin. The visitors created several chances, including a penalty appeal by Lonergan that referee Kevin O'Sullivan waved away. Derry's defense, anchored by Patrick McClean, held firm to keep Waterford's strikers Podge Amond and Tommy Lonergan scoreless. Amond and Lonergan shared 36 goals between them during the season, making a clean sheet a notable achievement for the Derry backline.

The match was paused briefly after Burns' goal when Derry supporters set off red flares, reducing visibility on the pitch. Referee O'Sullivan ordered a water break to allow conditions to improve before play resumed. Derry manager Mark Connolly had intended to substitute Burns for Kevin Dos Santos just before the goal was scored, but the change was delayed by eight minutes.

Patrick McClean, who played at center-back, described the victory as a product of resilience. He noted that the crowd's energy at the stadium matched the team's determination. McClean stated that the team plans to use the momentum from this win to challenge for the league title in the upcoming season. His older brother James also plays for Derry City, and the pair had previously expressed a desire to win the trophy together.

Waterford, managed by Graham Coughlan since May, relied heavily on quick transitions and the set-piece accuracy of wing-back Benny Couto. Despite creating chances through their Norwegian winger Jorgen Voilas and the striking partnership, they could not convert pressure into a goal. Derry City will now celebrate at the Guildhall in Derry, marking the end of a difficult season with a major domestic trophy.

The final scoreline reflects a contest that was tight and physical. Derry City's victory over Waterford completes their domestic campaign and sets the stage for next season's preparations.