'There were moments in both halves where we played quite well' - Keith Long pleased as Bohs earn win away to Longford

Bohemians boss Keith Long is hopeful that his side can continue their momentum after goals from Liam Burt and Ali Coote saw off Longford Town on Saturday night.

Burt struck in the first-half with a sublime strike from distance, while Coote blasted home with 20 to play after profiting on some defensive lapses in the host’s defence.  

“Hopefully we can build on tonight and last week. It’s a positive night as we’ve come down here and haven’t played as well as we can play.

“There were moments in both halves where we played quite well and looked dangerous particularly on the counter-attack.”

Long spoke before the season about his squad taking time to gel having had a sizeable turnover of players in the off season.

New signings Liam Burt and Ali Coote have stepped up in recent weeks, Burt produced another great strike to notch his third of the season before Coote made it three in two games.

“Liam gets excited when there’s space in front of him, he drives into it and gets the opportunity, he’s got good technique and now he is contributing goals and assists around the team,” Long said.

Bohs were not afraid to mix it up showing great variety in their play, playing through the thirds and often going direct to Georgie Kelly, who combined well with academy graduate Ross Tierney.

Keith Long was pleased with the link up play between the two players.

“I’m disappointed for Georgie not to score a goal tonight and even Rossie too, it would have been nice for them to get on the scoresheet.

“Georgie’s display with his back to goal was really good and his link up play this season has been really good for us with Rossie playing off him and benefiting from Georgie’s really good play, they are enjoying playing football together,” Long added.

James Finnerty stood out at the back for Bohs as they preserved their second consecutive clean sheet with the Skryne native making a crucial headed clearance with the game in the balance at 1-0.

Long was pleased with Finnerty’s performance and feels there is more to come from him.

“James loves defending, particularly when they throw two bodies up top, he has been consistent for us this year.

“He’s a good defender, there’s no nonsense with him, he’s reliable, strong, quick and aggressive, he’ll put his body on the line for the team.

“He’s getting a consistent run of games which perhaps he didn’t get last year, we’ve always valued James and what he brings to the team.”