Waterford progress to the second round of the FAI Cup with a dominant 5-0 victory against St. Michael's at Cooke Park this afternoon.

The Blues got off to the best possible start with a goal in the opening minute of the game. League of Ireland First Division top scorer Ronan Coughlan headed home from a ball to the back post by Serge Atakyi.

St. Michael’s threatened in the first half and hit the woodwork with David Slattery’s effort after a Luke Kiely corner.

Waterford doubled their advantage three minutes after this scare with Sam Perry’s first goal for the club. Killian Cantwell cut the ball back for Perry who made no mistake with his finish.

Waterford would go in at half-time three goals up, the third goal coming from a close range Connor Parsons strike after Coughlan found his teammate with a ball behind the defence.

Waterford would make a number of changes early in the second half, with two substitutes adding to their already unassailable lead.

Cameron Cresswell would be the first substitute to get on the scoresheet after Ryan Burke’s cross-field ball found the Waterford replacement and Cresswell made no mistake with the header to make it 4-0.

The final goal was a brilliant solo effort by substitute Romeo Akuchukwa who twisted and turned away from defenders before slotting the ball home for the games final game.

Keith Long and Waterford comfortably proceed to the second round of the FAI Cup after a routine day at the office for The Blues.