Galway edge Waterford with second-half comeback

Galway United 2 (Vinny Borden 48, David Hurley 79) Waterford 1 (Pádraig Amond 18)

Galway United came out on top of a spirited encounter in Eamonn Deacy Park to register their second win on the bounce in the Premier Division.

The two promoted sides rekindled their rivalry that has been intensifying over the years. United had coped well with the visitors in the first quarter and Sam Sargeant had to be alert to snuff out a series of crosses.

The ‘keeper played a crucial role to help put his side in front. He unleashed Darragh Power on the right and the fullback beat his opposite number to the byline and drilled a ball across the goal.

Brendan Clarke was rooted by the delivery but it was food and drink to Pádraig Amond who tapped home.

Waterford piled on the pressure after the goal. United though, should have been at least on terms around the half hour mark. The outstanding Aodh Dervin had three efforts on goal but was denied.

The first was a snapshot from 25-yards. Dervin struck sublimely with the outside of his boot and the ball seemed destined for the top corner. However, it hit the bar.

Two minutes later a mix-up in the Waterford rearguard allowed him a shot that Sargeant saved. Three minutes later, an Ed McCarthy throw caused consternation. It fell to Dervin with the goal at his mercy but a Waterford body stopped the goal-bound drive.

Waterford were pegged back shortly after half-time. Dervin this time turned provider and picked out Vince Borden with a sharp cross that was steered home.

Chances were at a premium and when a free-kick fell to David Hurley on the edge of the box, he struck decisively. His low drive found the otherwise excellent Sam Sargeant somewhat flat footed and the ball went unchallenged into the far