Derry City fans have been given a major boost for their trip to the FAI Cup Final with the announcement of special bus and train services. Translink has laid on dedicated transport from Derry to Dublin for the showpiece match at the Aviva Stadium on Sunday 8 November. The team, currently fifth in the Premier Division with 44 points from 34 games, will look to cap a solid season that has seen them score 46 goals and concede 44.

A club spokesperson said the Translink train and bus service had become a key part of the cup final experience. They encouraged supporters to look at these options ahead of the game as a stress-free way to travel.

The special train will leave the North West Transport Hub at 9.20am on the day of the final. It is scheduled to return from Dublin Connolly station at 6.35pm that evening.

Bus services will depart from Foyle Street Bus Station at 8am. Return journeys are set for 6pm, with a later departure at 6.45pm planned if the match goes to extra time. Fans can book their spots for these services online through Translink's website.

Cup final context for Derry City

Derry City secured their place in the final while sitting fifth in the Premier Division table with 44 points from 34 matches. Their recent form has been strong, with three wins, one draw and one loss in their last five league games. They warmed up for the final with a 1-0 home victory over St Patrick's Athletic last weekend, a result that keeps them in touch with the European places. That win, secured by a Kévin Santos goal assisted by Darragh Burns in the 62nd minute on Monday 19 October, was part of a recent run that also included a 2-0 win over Galway United and a 2-2 draw with Waterford. The team's top scorer this season, M. Duffy with 12 goals, will be a key threat in the final.

Before the final, Derry City face a league fixture at home against Dundalk, who are sixth, on Friday 23 October.

Their opponents in the final will be Waterford, setting up a decisive clash at the national stadium.

Supporters are urged to finalise their travel plans and book the dedicated services soon. The club's endorsement highlights how these arrangements have helped build a unified fan presence in Dublin for previous finals.

Read the full report at derrydaily.net