Sceptics may suggest that it was luck, others could hint at an off night for the hosts, but Neale Fenn felt that Longford Town deserved their Second Round victory over Shamrock Rovers. It required a late goal from captain Daniel O'Reilly in Tallaght
Sceptics may suggest that it was luck, others could hint at an off night for the hosts, but Neale Fenn felt that Longford Town deserved their Second Round victory over Shamrock Rovers.
It required a late goal from captain Daniel O'Reilly in Tallaght Stadium to seal passage through to the quarter-finals, but Town boss Fenn was pleased with how his side played overall.
“We showed what we can do on a good pitch. We’re not used to pitches like that in the First Division!," said Fenn.
“Adam O’Connor was out of the match day squad today – he was injured. Cian Byrne’s out injured as well – he’ll be out for six weeks. We only had six subs tonight. We’re down to the bare bones.
“We made a decision at the start of the season that we weren’t going to have a big squad; we were going to have a quality squad. We have lads who can come in and do a job when we need it,” said Fenn who also praised the performances of Jamie Hollywood and Dylan McGlade, other stars against Rovers, although not regular first team starters.
Come early May, League and Cup commitments will take the Town southwards twice in a week. “We now play Cobh Ramblers on the Saturday and on the Tuesday, both away. I’m going to ask the Chairman to put his hand in his pocket!” quipped Fenn.
Longford’s only EA SPORTS Cup win came back in 2004. A memorable win against much fancied opposition could well propel Fenn’s team to another final appearance.
