Alan Reynolds felt Derry City didn't deserve to lose in Waterford

Reynolds failed to defeat Devine's Derry side on five occasions last season, losing twice in the league, once in the League Cup semi-final and drawing twice at the Regional Sports Centre.

Derry haven't won at the RSC since 2007 and didn't look like breaking that particular duck on Friday night as they failed to get out of second gear.

Former Blues forward, Walter Figueira did have a glorious chance to find the net in the first half while Stephen Mallon gave City the lead on 32 minutes.

However, two stunning strikes from Sam Bone and Shane Griffin handed the home side a first home win of the season.

And while Reynolds was delighted with the result, he wasn't convinced his side were worthy winners.

"I didn't beat Decky last year so I'm happy," he smiled. "I've been on the receiving end of those ones as well against Decky.

"So I would say they feel a bit hard done by to lose that because I don't think they deserved to lose it."

Despite losing back to back home matches, Waterford find themselves two points above Derry and Reynolds believes Friday's win will give them a much needed boost.

"We've six points now and we've had a difficult start so to beat Derry City here is fantastic for us.

"It is a big three points. It was a big game for both teams and one we certainly didn't want to lose.

"I think we started well for about 25 minutes and then they got a hold of the game and scored.I think the goal just before half-time was a big lift for us but if I'm being honest I think Derry just shaded the second half. We had the better chances but they shaded possession."

Waterford looked the most likely to win the game in the dying stages and when Shane Griffin stepped up to rifle his 25 yard effort high into the net, Reynolds was delighted but not necessarily surprised.

"The goal to win it was a spectacular one from a homegrown lad. He's a young local lad.

"Decky's bringing through young local lads up in Derry and we're doing the same. We're trying to keep up with the likes of Derry I would've thought - they're a really good outfit.

"It was a wonder goal but it's something he would work at and do in training.

"So it's a massive three points for ourselves we needed that. We've lost two at home so that will give us a boost."