UCD UCD were being mentioned as favourites for the play-offs, at best, before the season started, rather than their current position of runaway league leaders. After losing the likes of Niall Corbet and Simon Power, it was understandable as to why Co
UCD
UCD were being mentioned as favourites for the play-offs, at best, before the season started, rather than their current position of runaway league leaders. After losing the likes of Niall Corbet and Simon Power, it was understandable as to why College were behind the likes of Galway and Longford in most predictions.
Collie O’Neill has his team playing attractive football, but more importantly it’s a winning formula. They’ve scored more goals than anyone else in the League.
Facing into their final nine games with a seven point lead is an extremely strong position for O’Neill and his squad to be in. They also have ten points to spare over Finn Harps in fifth place, with the top four set to at least get a place in the play-offs. From here, it’s a case of picking up points in every game and seeing it home.
Mid-Season Rating: A
At worst, you would imagine The Students will be in a play-off place. What might please Collie O’Neill the most is the mental resolve that the team has shown, coming back to win on two occasions, while also earning draws against Galway and Shels after falling behind.
Best Player: Georgie Kelly
The former Derry striker has been in scintillating form once again, hitting fourteen goals, to go to the top of the scoring charts in the First Division. Rumours of a move to play for one of the Irish clubs competing in Europe will be worrying for UCD supporters.
Most Promising Newcomer: Paul Doyle
Collie O’Neill has been depending on much of the same squad as last year, but Doyle as been solid when he’s been called upon. The midfielder has been getting more time on the park as his confidence grows.
Area They Need To Strengthen: Defence
Scoring hasn’t been an issue for UCD, but they’ve been sloppy in defence. They’ve conceded more goals than Galway, Drogheda, and Shelbourne. If they are to win the title, the mantra of ‘whatever you score, we’ll score more’ might not be the one to depend on.
