Bircham did a bit of a Caulfield, dont lose away and go for it at home. It backfired with losing to Dundalk who even on the front foot leak goals but the damage was done when the sitting in tactic was done just before HT and then struggled to change it up, I doubt he really thought they deserved a point though you could say Dundalk deserved to drop 2 for not killing the game with all the missed chances. At home to Derry it was half and half with going for the game before trying to stick and run the clock down and let Derry off the hook. I dont recall too many games that end up with a good result when inviting a team on when sitting in, spoiling or going for the corners with plenty of time to play. It was especially the kiss of doom whenever Ireland did it, or brought on players to go 5 at the back or in midfield when well in the game over the years. It could have been 4 points for Waterford, definitely 3, but lacked some belief - understandable as well this Dundalk fan knows when at the wrong end of the table.
This Dundalk situation is really testing resolve with getting in touch of a possible European spot and then out of the reckoning, win tomorrow and its possible again, though i'd take a guarantee not to be in the play-off right now in lieu. Tough game away to the Drogs and Stanton will be be a big miss. The small pitch always compresses things and makes it a more attritional. It is the most fun away spot with a good crowd and atmosphere. A wee bit nostalgic for Dundalk to be playing on a Thursday night. Get a win, hope that the form sticks for Longford and it will be an interesting last day v Derry depending on other results too starting with Rovers to rubbing Bohs noses in it and push them down the table (for purely selfish DFC reasons, not a secret love or hate of either in the Dublin Derby!!!).
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