Shelbourne boss Eoin Wearen reflected on his side’s 2–1 defeat to Athlone Town, admitting the first half cost them as they conceded poor goals and showed too much respect to the hosts

Shelbourne boss Eoin Wearen reflected on his side’s 2–1 defeat to Athlone Town, admitting the first half cost them as they conceded poor goals and showed too much respect to the hosts. However, he was encouraged by a much-improved second-half display where Shels created chances, pulled one back, and looked far more dangerous. Wearen also highlighted the disallowed goal for Mackenzie Anthony and the red card shown to Jemma Quinn as two major moments that went against his team. Despite the setback, he stressed the importance of carrying the second-half performance into future games and ensuring the season maintains momentum rather than drifting away.