John Martin believes that Dundalk’s 1-0 win over Bohemians on Friday night has added an extra layer of spice to this weekend’s clash with league leaders Shamrock Rovers at Tallaght Stadium.
The 23-year-old came off the bench to replace the injured Patrick Hoban at Dalymount Park and played a massive role in Dundalk’s victory, forcing Bohs goalkeeper Tadgh Ryan into the mistake that led to the only goal of the game.
The result, coupled with Rovers’ 0-0 draw away to Derry City at the Brandywell, leaves Dundalk four points behind the league leaders ahead of Sunday’s game and Martin said that there was no escaping the importance of the clash.
“It’s a huge fixture no matter what but there is a real emphasis on us now to go and really do a job,” he said.
“We have a few bodies out but the gaffer has brought in a few really good signings and the squad is big and very competitive and there’ll be no qualms about who comes in.”
After showing real quality in the 1-1 draw with Derry City seven nights earlier, Dundalk showed a different side to their game in Phibsborough after Andy Boyle’s red card left them to play the remaining 38 minutes – and a further eight of added time – with 10 men.
“Everyone to a man was unbelievable, fantastic,” said Martin. “The subs that came on gave us a huge boost. We’re all playing for each other and it was just a huge result.”
You can listen to John’s full post-match interview below.
