Kennedy is City villian as Blues stay in the Hunt
The rise of Dublin City goalkeeper Brendan Kennedy was one of the main features on the Soccer Show last weekend - but a dreadful error by the former Cherry Orchard man helped Waterford United to a crucial 2-1 victory over Dublin City at Whitehall tonight.
As both sides pressed for a winner, Waterford were awarded a corner four minutes into injury time. Former Home Farm Everton player Pádraig Drew crossed, Kennedy - under little pressure - dropped and Gary Dempsey rifled home.
The goal sparked wild celebrations among the Waterford players, bench and supporters - up to 200 of whom made the journey from the southeast to witness a victory that could prove vital for Waterford.
The night had actually began on a sour note for Jim McGeough's side. After just five minutes, Kelvin Flanagan ignored his vast experience by kicking out at a City player before referee Anthony Buttimer sent him off.
It looked like a long 85 minutes in store for United but they took the lead within a couple of minutes. Andy Myler played a delightful pass to Noel Hunt, who controlled superbly before beating Kennedy.
This frantic opening spell saw another goal on 12 minutes. Slack United defending allowed stylish midfielder Cathal O'Connor the time to coolly lob Brendan Fennelly.
Dublin were on top for the remainder of the half, while they were also the better side in a second half that saw some nice passages of play, despite the cutting up of the pitch.
Substitute Robbie Farrell found himself free in the box but he headed straight at Fennelly. Earlier on the former Longford Town striker saw his shot go just wide.
Austin Skelly and Tony Sheridan were also close for City, though David Breen missed a glorious chance late on to restore the visitors' advantage.
This win sees Waterford move to second on 47 points with 29 games played. Dublin lead them having also played 29 times by three points. Drogheda United are third, with 46 points and a game to spare; Finn Harps are fourth with 44 points and two games to spare.
It is really anyone's guess who will occupy the final two places. Waterford, who are idle on the last weekend of the season, have the easiest run in: their three games include home ties against Athlone Town and Sligo Rovers, as well as a visit to lowly Cobh Ramblers.
Dublin City have a break next weekend before facing Cobh Ramblers at Whitehall, but their last two games of the season could decide who wins the championship. City are away to Drogheda before hosting Finn Harps on the final day.
