SSE Airtricity League reporter Darryl Geraghty has looked at the current 'Team of the Season' with the league half-way through the 2019 season. Mid-Season Report: Team of the Season (so far) With the mid-season break upon us, its time to have a lo
SSE Airtricity League reporter Darryl Geraghty has looked at the current 'Team of the Season' with the league half-way through the 2019 season.
Mid-Season Report: Team of the Season (so far)
With the mid-season break upon us, its time to have a look at the top performers of the SSE Airtricity League so far.
Goalkeeper: James Talbot (Bohs) - Under massive pressure to fill the gloves of one of the leagues best keepers in Shane Supple but the ex-Sunderland stopper has taken to the league like a duck to water. Coupled with the fact the centre half pairing has changed so much, he's been a class act and deserved his recent call up to the Irish International set up.
Right back: Sean Gannon (Dundalk) - One of the best right-backs around and current SSE Airtricity Player of the Month. Energy levels through the roof, as solid defensively as ever and is now looking a threat on the attacking side of the game. Has it all.
Centre back: Kevin Toner (St. Pats) - Arguably, the Saints best defender in an up and down season so far, but has shown composure far beyond his 22 years. The ex-Aston Villa man looks to be a leader at the heart of the defence and is a big reason that, Harry Kenny's men sit in fifth, and have the fourth best defensive record conceding just 19 goals in 22 games. One to watch, with a big future in the game.
Centre back: Sean Hoare (Dundalk) - His side have conceded just 11 goals in 21 games this season as they look to retain their title. The Lilywhites now sit top of the pile with a five point gap on Shamrock Rovers and the Dubliner has played his part at the other end of the pitch "netting" a vital late winner against St. Pats at the end of May, wether he knew much about it is another question!
Left back: Darragh Leahy (Bohs) - The U-21 international has been Mr. Consistent in an excellent season for the Phibsboro outfit that see's them third in the league and in with a real chance of a European place. Rarely troubled defensively and one of the first names of the team sheet for Keith Long.
Centre midfield: Jack Byrne (Shamrock Rovers) - A lot of pressure was put on the shoulders of the 23-year old as he came into the league with such a big reputation and set with the task of trying to dethrone Dundalk and some of his performances have been outstanding. A vital cog in The Hoops midfield, contributing three goals, the ex-Man City man has deserved call ups to the senior International set up, where he didn't look out of place. Sometimes seems to be a pass ahead of everyone on the field so get out an enjoy the talent why he's in the league.
Centre midfield: Conor Levingston (Bohs) - When JJ Lunney left The Gypsies for Waterford the day after last season had ended, many Bohs fans could have feared the worst with a big hole in the centre of the park. But, again, huge credit to Keith Long for getting the ex-Wolves man in. The Gorey native has gone onto form a formidable partnership with Keith Buckley just in front of the back four and is not afraid to show his quality and bravery in possession. Classy operator.
Centre midfield: Danny Mandroiu (Bohs) - Technically, one of the most gifted players in the league and still only 20 years of age. Another stroke of genius by Keith Long and his recruitment team, to convince the U-21 International to sign on until the end of next season as overseas interest begins to ramp up. Seems to be having his own goal of the season competition with his strikes against UCD, free kick against St. Pat's and the stunner seen around the world in the winner against Shamrock Rovers.
Left wing: Michael Duffy (Dundalk) - No brainer, the guy is just quality. Has contributed to seven goals so far this season and one of the top performers in the league overall. Will no doubt be in the running for Player of the Year also.
Right wing: Zack Elbouzedi (Waterford) - The U-21 international has been in scintillating form on the wing for both club and Country. One of the real stars of the season and a real threat from anywhere across the front line
Forward: Pat Hoban (Dundalk) - Had a relatively slow start to the season but still sits comfortably on top of the goal scorers chart - four ahead of the injured Dinny Corcoran, Aaron Drinan and team-mate Michael Duffy -and possibly could have had more if it weren't for a couple of missed penalties. The Lilywhites' faithful will looking on nervously in the coming weeks, as the discussion around where their star mans future lies continues to grow..
