Listen: Limerick FC manager Tommy Barrett delighted with victory over Waterford

Limerick FC manager Tommy Barrett was delighted with his side’s 2-1 victory over Waterford FC at the Markets Field on Friday night. A first half penalty from Billy Dennehy gave Limerick the lead after Tommy Holland had saved a Paul Keegan spot-kick after Eoin Wearen was sent off for a foul on Noel Hunt.

Former Limerick midfielder Batien Hery equalised after the visitors were also reduced to ten men as David Webster was sent off for two yellow cards. However, Super Blues captain Shane Duggan stole the show with a superb strike to win the game for the Shannonsiders with seven minutes remaining.

It was a controversial evening at the Garryowen venue with referee Damien McGraith proving an unpopular individual with both sides. McGraith dismissed Eoin Wearen for a perceived foul on Noel Hunt in the opening three minutes much to the dismay of everybody present. Speaking after the game, Barrett felt the referee made it difficult for himself.

“I think the ref made it difficult for himself sending Eoin off. Eoin said he just put his hand on his chest and if you are going to give penalties for that. They didn’t even appeal for it.”

Shane Duggan received slight criticism from his manager following last week’s defeat to St. Patrick’s Athletic as the captain was replaced late on. However, Barrett was delighted with the response from his captain.

“Duggy is a really good player. From my point of view I want to make him a better player. He’s a really brave footballer and always wants to get on it all the time and that’s the type of player I want.”

Barrett was full of praise for the Markets Field surface and the supporters performance also.

“It makes a huge difference (a vocal support). The pitch makes a huge difference. The pitch has been really good for the last couple of months. We try to play good football. I’ve said it for numerous years now that we have to back our younger players and we have done that this year and they are really doing well.”

You can listen to the full interview with the Limerick manager below.