Derry City will meet Waterford in the FAI Cup final on Sunday, presenting an opportunity for the club to reverse its fortunes from the 2026 campaign.
Manager Mark Connolly spoke with BBC Sport NI regarding preparations for the decisive encounter against Waterford.
Throughout most of the season, Derry City faced significant challenges including managerial instability and inconsistent results that hindered their progress.
Former player Mark Connolly assumed interim leadership and has since won eight out of thirteen matches in charge.
His tenure included victories over UCD, Dundalk and Galway United which propelled the team to the final.
Waterford's recent form mirrors Derry's trajectory, improving significantly following a change in management.
Tiernan Lynch left Waterford on 5 August after the club had secured only one win in seven games while sitting sixth in the Premier Division.
Connolly aims to complete a rare cup double as he previously helped Coleraine win the Irish Cup against Dungannon Swifts in May.
He expressed confidence in his squad's current form and noted that few players remain under contract.