LIMERICK Home struggles continue to hamper Limerick. The Super Blues have taken double the amount of points on their travels, as Tommy Barrett sees his side in ninth place. Barrett will have been pleased with four points from the opening two game
LIMERICK
Home struggles continue to hamper Limerick. The Super Blues have taken double the amount of points on their travels, as Tommy Barrett sees his side in ninth place.
Barrett will have been pleased with four points from the opening two games; however thumpings away to Dundalk and Derry dented confidence, though a 6-3 win in Waterford showed what his side are capable of.
Fans will know that keeping their experienced players fit is the only route to safety, with injuries regularly stifling momentum. Finding the net has proven the biggest problem – including seven blanks at home – with Connor Ellis, Mark O’Sullivan and Danny Morrissey spending prolonged spells on the treatment table.
A frustrating EA SPORTS Cup exit to Cobh will be forgotten if Limerick can steer clear of trouble and embark on an Irish Daily Mail FAI Cup run, similar to 2017, but regaining some form of confidence at home, is essential.
Mid- Season Rating: D
The squad has plenty of experience and quality, but cutting out mistakes and becoming more creative in attack could enable Limerick climb above fellow struggling sides. With one defeat in eight games against Sligo, Bohemians and Bray, Barrett knows his troops are capable of securing vital results.
Best Player: Cian Coleman
Energetic midfielder Coleman has made 19 Premier Division appearances, adding to just three during his spell with Cork City. His willingness to cover ground and steer the Limerick midfield has been vital the majority of their positive results. At just 21, Coleman displays maturity beyond his years, at times.
Most Promising Player: Karl O’Sulllivan
Having debuted on the final day of last season the leaving certificate student has passed many of his on-field exams so far. The winger has showed sensational dribbling ability and looks nerveless against more experience opposition.
Area they need to strengthen: Attack
Prolific attackers are tricky to come by, and while at times, the supple from a talented midfield is good, the end product has been frustrating. Finding an existing talent to find the net, or adding a player who can do so, will help Limerick rise to safety.
