UCD secure Premier Division place after 2-1 play‑off win over Drogheda United

UCD clinched promotion to the Premier Division with a 2-1 victory over Drogheda United in the promotion‑relegation play‑off at Tallaght Stadium.

Managed by Buncrana native William O’Connor, the Students overturned the odds to book a top‑flight place for next season, sending the FAI Cup winners, who had lifted the trophy just two years ago, down to the First Division.

O’Connor, in his third season at the helm after taking charge following Andy Myler’s departure, had been confirmed as manager before UCD’s relegation from the Premier Division in 2023. He previously worked under Ollie Horgan at Finn Harps and managed Shelbourne’s U19 side, holding a UEFA Pro Licence and experience with the Republic of Ireland Schools squad.

Drogheda opened the scoring when Mark Doyle slipped past Dara Kavanagh. UCD equalised when Ciaran Behan curled a free kick, and the winning goal came from Louis Dignam, set up by Hugh Smith. Keeper Kavanagh made two late saves to preserve the result.

The promotion marks UCD’s return to the top flight for the first time since the 2023 campaign.

Source: Donegal Daily. Photo: Jose David Cortes / Pexels.