Russell sees room for improvement

UCD manager Martin Russell felt that there were still areas which his players could improve on following his team's 3-0 victory over Dundalk in the Airtricity Premier League on Friday night.

“It was a performance that was good in parts but could have been better in others. In games we try and look at the things that went wrong as well. I thought in the second half we became a bit complacent and when we were 2-0 up, maybe if they had taken one of the chances that they had, we could have been in a little bit of trouble. The players did give a lot of effort tonight and it was another three points.”

Russell revealed that Tomas Boyle, who was named in the starting line-up, but who was replaced just before kick off by Daniel Ledwith missed the game because of a hamstring injury. “Yeah Tomas (Boyle) had an issue with his hamstring, which was a bit of a concern. We took a precaution and didn't start him. Danny Ledwith slotted into left back.”

Paul O'Conor rounded off an excellent counter attacking move for UCD's second goal. It was a goal which pleased the UCD boss “Yeah I think that the second goal was a proper counter-attack goal. We tried to play in difficult conditions in the rain. We try and keep the ball well. We encourage that and it was good to see it again tonight.”

UCD still have to play St. Pats, Shamrock Rovers and Sligo Rovers, and Russell believes that his players should be relishing the challenge of facing the title contenders “The aim is to put in the performances, to play well and to try and win the games. The teams that are upcoming are all big challenges but they are the type of ones that the lads should relish. They are good games, but we'll still look to pick up as many points as we can” concluded the UCD manager.