Dave Rogers: Things beginning to move in right direction at Finn Harps

Dave Rogers says Finn Harps are slowly building momentum following their encouraging 1-0 win away to Longford Town. 

It’s the first time Rogers has nailed three points to the League of Ireland First Division board as Harps boss. 

The visitors looked to be headed for a scoreless draw at Bishopsgate but an 81st minute Ryan Rainey penalty made sure Harps made the journey home with a win in their back pocket. 

“It’s a great result and it means we’re now unbeaten in three games,” said Rogers. “Longford is such a difficult place to come. They’d found a bit of traction themselves in their last few games. I’m really happy for the lads, first and foremost. 

“I’m with them every day, I’m seeing how hard they’re working. The application is immense. In this division, every side is capable of taking points off the next. We are still looking to get that first goal from open play… that’s Ryan’s third penalty now. 

“The first half, Longford were the better side. Ryan Flood might have scored just a minute in. But once it settled, they’d the  upper hand. But the second half, once we changed one or two small things, we got on the front foot. 

“We created two or three good opportunities in that final third. We got that little bit of luck with the penalty. And we’ve got three points now, a clean sheet and we’re really happy with that”. 

And while the team’s search for their first goal from open play continues, Rogers is content to say  that the manner in which they’re attempting to source it certainly won’t change. 

“There is no cheering or singing in that dressing room. The lads know it’s just another small piece of the bigger puzzle. We hope it’s more momentum. We go out to win every game and we’re trying to do that in a certain manner. 

“It will take time before we get it right. But as long as I keep seeing the principles of what we’re trying to impress upon the lads, we’ll be happy. Baby steps and it’s onwards and upwards”.

Finn Harps’ next outing is a home clash with Cobh Ramblers on Friday night. The one disappointment for Rogers on Saturday night was the sight of captain Keith Cowan limping out of the action in the first half. 

“It’s not a hamstring tear,” he said on that front. “It’s just very tight and it’s causing him some discomfort. Keith is an experienced pro, he put his hand up right away. He sees the bigger picture. We have some big games coming up so that was no problem”.