Limerick FC manager Tommy Barrett delighted to extend unbeaten run at the Markets Field against Cork City

Limerick FC earned a richly deserved point at the Markets Field on Friday night against a much fancied Cork City side. The home side took the lead following a great solo effort from former Cork winger Billy Dennehy who reverted to left-back last night. Referee Neil Doyle awarded the visitors a contentious penalty which was duly converted by key player Kieran Sadlier.

It was hard for Limerick manager Tommy Barrett to hide the delight he took from his side’s response to Monday night’s defeat to Derry. In truth, the Shannonsiders had the more clear cut chances to grab a winner in the second half and this was echoed by Barrett as he spoke to the media in the aftermath of the game.

“Yeah I think we could have won it. On the creation of chances we probably created the better ones. For the penalty, Darren (Dennehy) said that the player pulled into him and then fell to the ground and they were getting decisions like that all day. They were probably a bit more clever than us in that respect but I don’t like my teams doing that.”

Limerick are still unbeaten at the Markets Field having secured two draws against Bohemians and Cork while defeating Bray Wanderers last week. It is an aspect which pleases the Limerick manager. Also, Barrett was pleased with the battling spirit shown by the side.

“Yeah it is (pleasing). I think we are a good team and a good group. Considering the players missing, it shows the squad can battle and dig in although it is tough.”

It was very encouraging to see the positive performances from academy graduates Will Fitzgerald and Karl O’Sullivan who were brave in possession on Friday night. Barrett managed both players at under-19s level and the former Limerick player feels the academy structure has the potential to help the club even more in the future.

“There are good players in this region. I always said that even when I was under-19s manager. Now the lads have a lot to learn still particularly on the defensive side of things. It is slightly easier to bring on the attacking players than defensive players. For example, Killian Brouder is a very good defender but it is more difficult to blood those lads in this league.”

Barrett was exceptionally pleased with Limerick’s opening goal through Billy Dennehy. He praised the character of the experienced winger.

“Yeah it was a great goal. I keep saying it about Billy. He has got character in his locker. I think Billy is a leader and it showed there again tonight. He is very vocal and very good with the young lads.”

Ahead of the Shamrock Rovers game, the manager is hoping for a repeat performance from both players and fans alike to create a great atmosphere at the Markets Field.

“Yeah the fans were excellent tonight. I really appreciate it in my first job and the group really appreciates it. Shamrock Rovers will be a tough one again with more injuries. Daniel Kearns and Danny Morrissey came off with injuries. That leaves us without five lads that would probably start so we are looking at a very young team for Monday night.”

Limerick face Shamrock Rovers on bank holiday Monday (March 19) at 6.30 pm at the Markets Field in the re-arranged fixture which was postponed due to Storm Emma two weeks ago. Following last night’s result, the Super Blues are sixth in the table while Shamrock Rovers are two places and two points better off.