Damien Duff: Derby draw with Bohemians two points that got away

Shelbourne manager Damien Duff felt the 1-1 draw with Bohemians was a missed opportunity to pick up three valuable points in the race for Europe.

The Dublin derby was played out at a packed Dalymount Park that swung one way, then another before the end result proved to be a share of the spoils and no change in the league standings.

The visitors made all the first-half running and were good value for their 1-0 interval lead courtesy of a belter of a goal from Jack Moylan.

The hosts however upped the ante in the second period as Shels retreated, with Ali Coote on target after concerted pressure 16 minutes from time.

The result leaves Shels in fourth, one point ahead of the Gypsies.

After watching a dominant first-half display, Duff was left to rue what transpired after the break.

"I'm sure their manager will disagree, but I absolutely believe it was two points that got away," he told RTÉ Sport.

"Did we do enough in the second half to get a second goal? Absolutely not. We didn’t take enough care of the ball. If you don’t take care of the ball, you end up defending.

"I thought we defended brilliantly, except for one moment. It was an awful goal to give away. Really, really bad."

While Bohs also have an FAI Cup semi-final to look forward to – they travel to First Division champions Galway on Saturday week – for Shels it is al about the league and securing European qualification.

Next up for them is a trip to Tallaght to take on champions Shamrock Rovers, live on RTÉ2 on Friday night.

"The lads are disappointed (with the result), but they will have to pick themselves up and go again Friday," he added.

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