Mid-season review: Drogheda United
Credit:
Season So Far: Drogheda began the season with a lot of optimism and on paper they possessed one of the stronger squads in the league, but plagued by injury and with apathy towards games they quickly found themselves adrift at the bottom of the table. A managerial change however has seen an upturn in results and a renewed confidence.
Biggest Strength: Until recently they lacked any strengths but it has to be the appointment of their new manager and the confidence and belief he brings. They are once again showing some of the fight that kept them up last season and will be expecting a better second half.
Biggest Weakness: Huge defensive frailties have seen Drogheda throw away some games and have allowed teams walk over them. A lack of passion has been widely associated with the team until recently, while a small squad has not helped considering the amount of injuries they incur.
Manager: Alan Mathews left due to poor performances and even poorer results. Newly appointed Darius Kierans has managed to revive the spirit in the squad and has them playing a more aggressive and positive style of football. Being a local he also has the backing of the home support and there is a new vibrancy among the home and travelling fans.
Star Player: Paul Crowley (aka The Warrior) has been the engine in the middle of the pitch and shows heart and desire everytime he puts on the Claret and Blue jersey. Wearing his very distinctive face mask he is the closest thing to a leader on the pitch for Drogheda.
Where to Improve: The improvement is underway in recent performances, the work rate of players has increased and they are once again willing to fight for points. However, they probably need a regular goalscorer and to work more on the defensive aspect of their play.
Overall Rating: 4/10
Biggest Strength: Until recently they lacked any strengths but it has to be the appointment of their new manager and the confidence and belief he brings. They are once again showing some of the fight that kept them up last season and will be expecting a better second half.
Biggest Weakness: Huge defensive frailties have seen Drogheda throw away some games and have allowed teams walk over them. A lack of passion has been widely associated with the team until recently, while a small squad has not helped considering the amount of injuries they incur.
Manager: Alan Mathews left due to poor performances and even poorer results. Newly appointed Darius Kierans has managed to revive the spirit in the squad and has them playing a more aggressive and positive style of football. Being a local he also has the backing of the home support and there is a new vibrancy among the home and travelling fans.
Star Player: Paul Crowley (aka The Warrior) has been the engine in the middle of the pitch and shows heart and desire everytime he puts on the Claret and Blue jersey. Wearing his very distinctive face mask he is the closest thing to a leader on the pitch for Drogheda.
Where to Improve: The improvement is underway in recent performances, the work rate of players has increased and they are once again willing to fight for points. However, they probably need a regular goalscorer and to work more on the defensive aspect of their play.
Overall Rating: 4/10
About P.J. Murray
P.J. generally covers Drogheda games at HD Park and can generally be found at any Dublin ground when of a loose end on a Friday night. View Full Profile