More positives than negatives to take away from Cork says Finn Harps boss Murphy

Darren Murphy believes his Finn Harps side left their 22-hour round trip to Cork with more positives than negatives despite a 1-0 loss to the league leaders.

They were effective in limiting City across the 90 minutes but were undone by a moment of magic from teenage talent Cathal O’Sullivan.

“All I wanted to do was come here and compete and we certainly competed. I’ve left with more positives than negatives so that’s pleasing,” said Murphy.

“Cork have been, without doubt, the most outstanding team in the league this year but we gave a really good account of ourselves.

“We created a few chances early on and did well to keep ourselves in the game. Cork’s goal is quite simply an outstanding strike from an outstanding young man and an outstanding footballer.

“What really pleased me is when we went 1-0 down, we stayed in the game and we created two good chances at the end.

“For large, large parts of the game, we were very good. We’ve ended up on the losing team due to a sheer, sheer bit of quality.”

New recruit Gavin Gilmore forced Brad Wade into a save from the best of those opportunities and Murphy is sure the winger will make an impact at Finn Park.

“He brings an energy. It’s something we look at, young players who have energy and want an opportunity.

“Gavin did very well when he came on for another young player in Aaron McLaughlin, who put in an unbelievable shift with Patrick Ferry in the two wide areas.

“We got fresh legs on and Gavin has a real good opportunity but the pleasing thing for me is he gets himself in there to get that opportunity.

“All the signings we’ve made this year have contributed and I’m sure Gavin will contribute in some way too.”

Bray’s draw with Kerry ensured that Harps remain fourth in the table but Murphy knows a long road lies ahead.

“The start of the year, it was just improve the football club in general. We’ve sat in play-off spots all season but we’ve only four games left at Finn Park and eight away from home. And our away games are away games.

“We’ll have tough times ahead but if we stick together and try to keep jumping over the hurdles, we might be ok.”

Top-scorer Success Edogun was absent due to a family issue in Nigeria but is expected to return for the FAI Cup clash back at Turner’s Cross on Saturday. Luke O’Brien is also expected back from injury but Kevin Jordan will miss out.

“It’s going to be a difficult game, certainly. I know that. They’re unbeaten at home but we’ll come here, we’ll have a game plan, and,” Murphy chuckles, “hopefully young O’Sullivan picks up the flu!”