Rugby news: Australia’s Dave Porecki to retire officially, but across the football world, all eyes are on Drogheda United and the incredible job being done by manager Kevin Doherty. Despite numerous setbacks, Drogheda continue to punch well above their weight, earning praise from Alan Cawley and Keith Treacy for their grit, discipline, and heart.
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Defying Expectations Again and Again
Drogheda’s story is nothing short of remarkable. They won the FAI Cup last season, but were denied a spot in Europe due to multi-club ownership rules. The Trivela Group, which owns Drogheda, also owns Danish side Silkebor who qualified for the UEFA Conference League meaning Drogheda had to step aside. Things didn’t get easier. Their top striker Douglas James-Taylor left for Bohemians in July, and the team went nearly a month without a league match, watching others play in Europe.
Spirit Over Style
Last Friday’s 1-0 win over Bohemians was a perfect reflection of Doherty’s approach disciplined, determined, and fully committed. While some, like pundit Vinny Perth, suggested it wasn’t the prettiest football, others saw it differently. “They’re putting teams under pressure, using long throws, picking up second balls,” he said, noting how effective those tactics were.
Cawley and Treacy Defend the Drogs
On the RTÉ Soccer Podcast, both Cawley and Treacy strongly defended Drogheda’s style. “People said they’d go down. Now we’re 26 games in and they’re still in the European spots,” Cawley pointed out. He praised Doherty’s leadership under tough financial constraints, saying it’s nothing short of phenomenal.
Heart and Grit is Their Identity
Treacy, who played for Drogheda in 2015, echoed the admiration. He rejected criticisms about “puke football” as disrespectful. “Nobody ever told me winning had to look pretty,” he said. “When guys throw their bodies on the line and defend like their lives depend on it—that’s beautiful football to me.” He also shared a powerful moment from Doherty, who had to tell his players they weren’t playing in Europe just an hour before a match, yet the team still led early on.
Manager of the Season?
Treacy ended by saying that if Drogheda finish the season around their current position, Kevin Doherty should be named Manager of the Year. The team continues to prove that belief, unity, and fight can still go a long way in football.
