 Waterford keeper Dan Connor scores the decisive penalty |
Derry City's dream of a second FAI Carlsberg Cup triumph in three seasons ended when they lost Friday's semi-final 2-1 to Waterford United. Daryl Murphy headed Waterford in front in the eighth minute but Davy Byrne quickly struck Derry's equaliser.
Waterford goalkeeper Dan Connor struck the winning goal with a 41st minute penalty after a handball by Derry defender Paddy McLaughlin.
Derry had winger Gareth McGlynn sent-off just before half-time.
Stephen Kenny's Candystripes were installed a cup favourites as soon as the semi-final draw was made and, with home advantage, must have fancied themselves.
However, the northern club suffered an early setback when Murphy, a member of the Republic's Under-21 squad, headed in at the second attempt after his initial effort had been blocked by City keeper David Forde.
 |  A lot of decisions went against and it was a very harsh red card |
Derry were level within five minutes, Byrne hitting a fine volley after a defensive header fell to him on the edge of the penalty area. Five minutes before half-time Waterford regained the lead through former Peterborough United keeper Connor's well-placed penalty.
The spot-kick was awarded for handball against McLaughlin who had attempted to block a shot by Willie Bruton.
Things went from bad to worse for Derry as they had Gareth McGlynn sent-off just before the break for a two-footed challenge on Mark Clifford.
Derry piled on the pressure towards the end but could not get the equaliser to stop Waterford reaching the showpiece final for the first time since 1986 where they will play Drogheda United or holders Longford Town.
Derry City boss Stephen Kenny said McGlynn's dismissal had changed the game.
"It was an unnecessary sending-off," said the Candystripes manager.
"A lot of decisions went against and it was a very harsh red card.
"We did not create enough in the second half but with 10 men it was difficult."
Derry City: Forde, McCallion, Delaney, McLaughlin, Hargan, Deery, Doherty, Byrne, McGlynn, Murphy, Martyn.
Waterford: Connor, Coleman, Frost, Reynolds, Breen, Whelehan, Carey, Mulcahy, Murphy, Bruton, Clifford.
MMIX
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