*Clare’s Lizzy Roche with Offaly’s Nicole Farrelly. Photograph: Burren Eye Photography
FIXING THE trend of poor second half displays is the focus for Clare intermediate ladies football manager, Wayne Freeman and his panel of players.
Clare picked up their second National League win on Saturday, holding on for a one point victory against Offaly. It should not have been as difficult, Clare led 2-08 0-07 at half-time but added just three scores in the second half to put themselves under undue pressure, letting a seven point lead slip through their fingers.
Speaking to The Clare Echo, Wayne Freeman reflected, “As a management team we just can’t put our finger on why the second halves in matches have been so poor. We were seven points up and looked to be in control. What was most disappointing was how defensively open we were at times. Maybe there was some complacency there which there never really should be”.
He added, “We have structures in place for basic work rate and defending and at times we got involved in a running all out attacking game which suited Offaly”.
Freeman took hope with how they withstood the mounting pressure in the closing moments. “On a positive note though the final few minutes when we needed to we showed great composure. There are green shoots in every performance. The last kick out where we worked the ball out was brilliant and relieved the pressure at a crucial time. Maybe we just like doing things the hard way”.
Game management must improve for Clare, he insisted but was confident the more games under their belt would assist in this regard.
Workrate has been a constant, he felt. “Not once have we questioned their work rate. They train brilliant. We need game management and that comes with experience. Their commitment and work rate is second to none. I am proud of these girls and proud to be involved with them. What was most pleasing was our bench contributed today. I felt they hadn’t made an impact against Wexford or Kildare but today when they were needed they came through. It’s a squad game and our squad is getting better with every outing”.
Making the most of home comforts against Down is the aim for Wayne as he tries to lead Clare to back to back wins for the first time in his tenure. “Today was all about getting the three points. I know it’s a cliche but winning is a habit. One or two other results have gone our way so we are right in the mix. We are so looking forward to playing in Cusack Park now against Down. The pitch will suit us. It’s a wide open field. We love to attack and Cusack Park is made for attacking football”.
