DESPITE going down on the day at the RSC, Dundalk's three goal lead from the first leg of this tie ensured that they retained their premier division status on the field of play at least.

Attention now turns to the FAI who will adjudicate this week, possibly tonight on Waterford's objection in Dundalk's signing of former Linfield player, Jeff McNamara, 24 hours before the first leg at Oriel Park.

McNamara scored two goals when he came on as a substitute on Thursday night last and played the full 90 minutes at the RSC.

The only goal of yesterday's game came after 82 minutes when substitute Trond Debes headed John Power's free from the right high into the net.

In the remaining minutes Waterford threw all their resources into one last prolonged offensive but Dundalk defended magnificently.