Keith Long wants a quick response from his side when they host UCD at Dalymount Park tonight as Bohemians look to move up a congested league table.
They face the league’s bottom side, but a team they struggled to break down the last time they met six weeks ago when the spoils were shared after a 1-1 draw in Belfield.
Bohs come into the game licking their wounds after a 3-1 defeat to champions Shamrock Rovers last week at the same venue.
Bohs found themselves 2-0 down at the break after a disappointing first-half showing, but battled hard to get back into the game when Junior Ogedi-Uzokwe scored on 69 minutes only for Rovers to reinstate their two-goal advantage a minute later.
Long said: “It is important that we react in the right manner after last week’s defeat to Rovers and to try and bounce back quickly tonight against UCD.
“We know we are a little bit short of where we would like to be at this point in the season but we also know things can change quickly.
“We also know that you don’t get anything for free in this league and you have to earn every point that you get.
“UCD are always dangerous opponents and caused us massive problems in our last game in the UCD Bowl.
“They have good young players and can hurt you if your performance levels are not right.
“From our perspective, we know we have to perform better and perform consistently better. The players are working extremely hard in training and in the analysis room to improve performances.
“To their credit, the lads have always accepted responsibility and are determined to put things right.
“We need to remain positive, our season is very much alive and I believe we can put a good run together and climb the table.”
With another big Bohs crowd expected in both the Jodi Stand and Des Kelly Stand tonight, Long is hoping the home support can give his side a big lift.
He added: “The support last week in difficult circumstances was terrific. Tonight is another Dublin Derby, there are three points on offer as there was last week.
“These are the games that our season will be defined on and in that respect your support is vital for the players.
“I absolutely accept we have a responsibility to get you on the edge of your seat watching the team play and at times this year that has been difficult.
“We need your support, it genuinely can be the difference. Hopefully we can repay the faith you have shown in the team with a strong performance and committed team display.”
TEAM NEWS
Rory Feely (ankle) and James Finnerty (knee) are out while Stephen Mallon (ankle), Conor Levingstson (hamstring) and Grant Horton (knee) are doubts.
