Kenna finds consistency key

Jeff Kenna spoke of his relief after picking up all three points in tonight’s 1-0 victory over Dundalk FC at Richmond Park. “(It was a) Huge win, one which we badly needed, it’s getting very tight at the bottom so we’re delighted with that,” he said.

When it was put to Kenna that his team had been at their most vulnerable following big wins earlier in the season the former Republic of Ireland international was quick to praise his players new found consistency: “I thought the players passed the ball around well, we had an iffy sort of first couple of minutes where I think we thought we were still playing in Europe, rolling around at the back and into midfield where it wasn’t necessary.”

“As the game went on I felt we got stronger and we passed the ball very well and we created a couple of good goal scoring chances and thankfully Gareth (O’Connor) came out with a pearler and got us the points.” Kenna declared.

He then singled out some praise for the match winner: “Gareth has been playing very well, he has that knack of getting in to those little pockets between the midfield and the front men and he’s very comfortable on the ball.”

Meanwhile, Dundalk boss Sean Connor was gracious in defeat acknowledging that his team were well beaten on the night and got what their unusually inept display deserved: “I think if you turn up to a place like Richmond Park and four or five of your players don’t perform you’re only going to be under pressure, I thought Pat’s were very good tonight.”

Kenna immediately turns his attention to next Thursday’s encounter with Krylya Sovetov while Connor will take comfort in his side staying fifth in the table despite their third defeat to the Saints this season.