Kevin Long announces his departure from Waterford FC after cup final defeat
Referee Kevin O'Sullivan shows Waterford's Kevin Long a yellow card during the FAI Cup Final. Photo: INPHO/Ryan Byrne
Waterford FC defender Kevin Long has confirmed that Sunday's FAI Cup final defeat to Derry City was his last game for the club.
The experienced centre-back announced his departure in a social media post on Tuesday, thanking the club's supporters, players and staff for their welcome during his spell at the RSC.
Long, who joined the Blues ahead of the 2026 campaign, was part of the Waterford side that fell to a 1-0 defeat against Derry City in Sunday's showpiece at the Aviva Stadium, with Darragh Burns' second-half strike proving the difference.
However, the Waterford News & Star can reveal that the cup final result had no bearing on Long's decision to leave the club, with the defender's departure understood to have been decided independently of Sunday's outcome.
In a message to supporters, Long expressed his disappointment at not being able to help deliver silverware for the club's large travelling support.
"I want to thank everyone at Waterford FC for welcoming me into your club this season," Long wrote.
"Unfortunately we couldn't cap the season off with a win in the final but we gave everything to try and make it happen for the fans but it just wasn't to be.
"Sunday's final was my last game for the club but I've really enjoyed my time and want to wish everyone all the best going forward."
Long's announcement brings an end to a season in which he became an important figure in Graham Coughlan's squad, helping Waterford reach their first FAI Cup final since 2004 and contributing to another successful Premier Division campaign.
The former Ireland international arrived at the club with a wealth of experience gained over a lengthy professional career in England and quickly established himself as a leader both on and off the pitch.
His departure is the first significant squad development to emerge following Sunday's heartbreaking defeat, with Waterford expected to begin shaping their plans for the 2027 season over the coming weeks.
While the pain of the cup final loss remains fresh, Long's message was one of gratitude as he brought his time in blue to a close, thanking those connected with the club and wishing Waterford every success in the future.
