'Zero chance of complacency' - Waterford hoping experience counts against Bray Wanderers

The promotion/relegation playoff will be the Blues’ final game under caretaker management of Matt Lawlor and Mark Yeates.

Fri, 07 Nov, 2025 - 07:00

John Fallon

Friday night’s final league fixture of the season – the promotion/ relegation playoff – will decide if Waterford survive or Bray Wanderers thrive.

This showdown at Tolka Park (7.45pm) will be Bray’s fourth game of the playoff series, seeing off UCD over two legs and Treaty United to emerge from the First Division pack.

Waterford, by contrast, only completed their Premier Division campaign last Saturday at home to Galway United to confirm their ninth-placed finish.

It will be the second year in a row that Bray are within 90 minutes of returning to a top-flight they last inhabited in 2018.

Recently-crowned FAI Cup winners Drogheda United prevailed in that shootout at Dalymount Park 12 months ago.

Waterford earned their premier comeback two years ago by coming from Bray’s position to dislodge Cork City 2-1 in extra-time.

It will be the Blues’ final game under caretaker management of Matt Lawlor and Mark Yeates.

They took charge last month when John Coleman was dismissed and its believed their Fleetwood Group owners will target Sligo Rovers boss John Russell if they retain their status.

“We all know how much this game means to the club – the fans, players and everyone,” said Waterford defender Ryan Burke.

Lawlor hopes experience can count.

“There’s a knowledge base of the players that is good. The performance will be decided on the day, but there will be zero chance of complacency in our preparation.”

Seagulls head coach Paul Heffernan has teen sensation Billy O’Neill back from suspension while 20-year-old Justin Ferizaj is on a high after his acrobatic winner against Treaty.

“The players deserve all the credit,” said former Sheffield Wednesday and Hibs striker Heffernan.

“They have been brilliant all season long, really showing in the playoffs not only their quality, but how hungry and desperate they are to get this club promoted.”