Establishing consistency among younger players will be key for Waterford FC in their bid to climb up the league table, says new defender Greg Halford.
Waterford are back in league action this evening, visiting Drogheda United - who have defeated the Blues twice so far this season. A win will see the Blues come out of the relegation zone, with Finn Harps in action away to Bohemians on Monday.
Englishman Halford scored on his debut for the Blues in their thrilling 4-4 draw with Athlone Town in the first round of the FAI Cup, with Marc Bircham's side prevailing on penalties.
The former Premier League defender told WLR FM that while it was good to get the win on the day, it wasn't a great performance by Waterford.
"It was an interesting match. It wasn't a great match for us, we conceded sloppy goals and going down to ten men didn't help. We showed good grit and determination to get back into the game at 3-2 down so we can take a few positives - but it still wasn't good enough."
Halford's injury-time equaliser sent that game to extra-time, and he admits it was an important goal. The former Reading man's versatility will prove an asset to the Blues going forward.
"It was an important goal. As soon as they scored their third, I asked the gaffer if I could go up front for a little bit and try and cause some problems for them. Lucky enough, we did - but it still wasn't good enough from us. We're going to have try and sort that out going into the next game. I think it's why the manager brought me in - the fact I can play in so many positions. The squad isn't massive and it's very young. I've brought my experience in and hopefully I can teach the young kids a few things and they'll push on."
The 36-year-old says the signings of experienced players like himself, midfielder Anthony Wordsworth and Eddie Nolan will give better balance to the side.
"We do have experience. Obviously, Eddie has more experience of playing over here (Ireland) than me and Woody. It's still a football game, me and Woody have seen it, done it and worn the t-shirt. We'll be trying to implement our experience and showing the younger guys game management most importantly. We must try and sort out the consistency. Consistency for youngsters is always the most important thing."
Kick off at Head In The Game Park is at 7.45pm tonight - we'll be broadcasting the game live on WLR FM thanks to McConnell's Toyota Waterford, with Matt Keane and Ray Scott on commentary.
