Waterford FC 2 Galway United 1
Ultimately, a chaotic and controversial SSE Airtricity League first division match at the RSC culminated with Waterford FC defeating Galway United.
Waterford came from behind to earn a vital victory as United suffered a disappointing defeat.
On a blistering evening there was no shortage of drama as Stephen Walsh steered the visitors' ahead in the 12th minute.
Waterford responded to level in the 18th minute as Roland Idowu scored following a move featuring Phoenix Patterson and Junior.
After the restart referee Alan Patchell, taking charge of a Waterford and Galway United fixture for the third time this season, awarded a 65th minute penalty.
Conor McCormack was sent off for a challenge on Wassim Aouachria, but Patterson fired the resultant spot kick over the bar.
Waterford, though, were afforded another chance to hit the front with nine minutes remaining.
Again Aouachria was deemed to have been fouled in the area. Junior expertly converted to ensure Waterford are still very much involved in the title race.
Waterford FC: Martin; Sobowale, Cantwell, Taylor, Power; Griffin, O’Keeffe; Idowu; Junior, Aouacharia, Patterson (En Neyah, 88 ).
Galway United: Kearns; Finnerty, Portilla, Lyons; Hemmings (Waweru, 85 ), McCormack, Hurley, McCarthy (O'Reilly, 85 ); Hery (Thomas, HT ); Manley (Lomboto, HT ), Walsh.
Referee: Alan Patchell.
