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First Team

Team News - Home vs Finn Harps - 06-05-22

Stephen Bradley reflects on Sligo, and looks forward to the visit of Finn Harps.

There are still tickets available for Friday’s home match. Buy here. The match will also be streamed live on LOITV


Was everyone frustrated not to take the three points in Sligo?

“Yes, we felt looking back at it that we were in control of that match. But it wasn’t a great game, and we were certainly left frustrated not to secure the win.”

It was a really good header by Andy from the corner to put us ahead which just continued this incredible goalscoring run he’s been on…

“Andy has been brilliant since he came in. We felt that he would add something to us, especially with the attacking side of his game, and he’s got off to a great start, he‘s been great for us and really suits the way we play.”

Sligo equalised and how did the second half unfold in your view and how did we manage it?

“We needed to manage the game better, we let it get too stretched and too open. Our game management has been very good this year, but last Friday wasn’t up to our level and that was frustrating.”

Did you feel it was one of those games where perhaps with more ruthlessness in front of goal it could have been killed off earlier?

“Definitely, we had half chances and found ourselves in very good positions, sometimes the final pass was delayed, or we took an extra touch. I felt the pitch was a factor in that, the players couldn’t be certain of their touch on it.”

Did the players feel the same way, that the pitch was a factor on the night?

“They knew what to expect and the pitch wasn’t a surprise, but it did become a factor. It is no excuse, every team in the league has played on it now, but as I said, we could see that players were uncertain on it, with delayed passes or taking an extra touch. In some areas it could be seen as borderline unsafe.”

Harps’ late win over Shelbourne will give them a bit of confidence coming to Tallaght. What do you make of them in recent weeks?

“Finn Harps will feel that their points total should be higher, they’ve been competitive in all of their games, maybe dropping points that they feel that they shouldn’t have. They tested us in the match up there, hitting the bar, and we’ll respect them and the way they play.”

After a couple of weeks on the road will it be nice to get back home in front of what will hopefully be a good crowd?

“Yes, we are really looking forward to being back in Tallaght in front of what will hopefully be another great attendance. The fans have been brilliant this year, and we’re anticipating great support for these three very important home games.”

Are there any injuries or suspensions for Friday?

“We’ve one or two minor knocks, but everyone is available. It was great to have Graham Burke back involved last Friday.”

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