Limerick FC manager Tommy Barrett believes that First Division Finn Harps will be firm favourites when the two sides meet in the SSE Premier Division promotion/relegation playoff. Harps’ victory over Drogheda on Friday secured their place in the two
Limerick FC manager Tommy Barrett believes that First Division Finn Harps will be firm favourites when the two sides meet in the SSE Premier Division promotion/relegation playoff.
Harps’ victory over Drogheda on Friday secured their place in the two legged tie and Barrett feels that despite his side being in the higher division, Harps’ form gives them the edge.
“I think they are favourites,” said Barrett after Limerick’s 4-0 defeat to St Patrick’s Athletic at the Markets Field.
“They have the momentum. They have the more experienced players, the more experienced staff. They are going well. It will be very difficult for us but we will give it our best shot. We have to be realistic.”
When Limerick last played Finn Harps in the same situation three years ago, it was the Donegal club that came out on top of the two legged affair.
Barrett insists that things are completely this time around as both clubs have undergone dramatic changes in the intervening period.
“They are two different teams. They have got a lot stronger and we have less resources now. I have 24 players, 17 available tonight.
“I have eight full time pro’s, two of which are out to long term injuries in Eoin Wearen and Darren Dennehy, seven part time pro’s and nine amateur players. That’s where we are at.
“You might get away with that in the First Division. You see it there tonight. The only other ones to put four past us here were Dundalk. When we are down numbers, we really struggle because lads aren’t ready.”
Limerick were on the back front throughout the 4-0 defeat to a St Pat’s side that were on top from the very first whistle.
Kevin Toner had Ger O’Brien’s side early on and the result was never in doubt once Jake Keegan bagged a second goal for the Inchicore side on 22 minutes.
A Jack Brady own goal and a Simon Madden strike in the second half completed the scoring and Barrett felt post game that Limerick made it too easy for their opponents.
“Disappointed in the manner of how we conceded. They were just terrible goals. Very sloppy bar the fourth one which was a good goal.
“We can’t just turn it on. We have to play well and put in some kind of performance, even if you lose, you have to play well. It had a bit of a feel of a friendly atmosphere but we have to be better.”
