Worrying times for League of Ireland

Picture: Des Barry

By Tony O’Doherty
Published on 28/08/2012 10:53

David McDaid’s goal during Friday night’s F.A.I. Cup tie in the Belfield Bowl could yet turn out to be the most important strikes of Derry City’s season!

Injuries have blighted most of the club’s season so far, therefore this victory will prove to be a much needed morale boost for players and fans alike.

Equally, if Derry managed to get a decent draw in the quarter-finals and go on to enjoy a good cup run, then financially it would be a God send.

Manager, Declan Devine’s otherwise good mood will have been slightly spoiled by the late sending-off of centre back, and team talisman, Stewart Greacen.

Some folks think I’m too pessimistic about the future of League of Ireland football but Friday night’s facts speak for themselves.

Even Shamrock Rovers only pulled in a crowd of just over 1,000 while spectators at our game with UCD numbered only several hundred.

Shelbourne drew less than 500 spectators to their derby tie while Bohemians managed just over 700 fans.

Sobering statistics and food for thought for those mindless cheerleaders, especially among the media whose constant “everything’s okay” mantra will eventually do untold damage to the local game.

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Worrying times for League of Ireland

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