With Galway United remaining the only unbeaten side in the league, on first impression the international break may seem like poor timing.
However, it also represents an opportunity for rehabilitation for a significant spate of injuries. These injuries have stretched the squad in ways that were not foreseen pre-season.
In early February, Greg Cunningham looked to be the main concern. His heroic recovery from a leg break aside, things began to turn in an ill-fated friendly against Longford and have deteriorated further since.
Brendan Clarke has missed the last two games and it will be hoped that the break will aid his recovery. Evan Watts has deputised ably in his absence.
Conor McCormack has yet to taste any action in the engine room after picking up an injury against Longford. Cian Byrne has played 90 minutes in the last three games in this position and is looking increasingly assured. David Hurley and Vince Borden have both made valuable contributions in midfield.
Garry Buckley has been another notable absentee at the back for bulk of the season. However, Rob Slevin has been excellent on the right side of a back three. Only he, Killian Brouder and Jeannot Esua have played every minute of the first six games.
Ed McCarthy, also injured in Longford, has failed to complete any full games. Bobby Burns and Regan Donelon have shared duties well at left wing-back. There is also a hint that McCarthy could be deployed in a more advanced role. In that kind of space, Patrick Hickey is thriving.
Therefore, the depth and adaptability of the squad has already been tested and held up well.
The performances of Moses Dyer have been another major plus. It has meant that there has been an opportunity to manage the minutes of Stephen Walsh who had to carry a lot of water leading the line last season.
There will have been a welcome respite early in the week, however sights will already be set on the trip to Dalymount Park next season.
There is disquiet amongst Bohs fans after a patchy start to the season after significant signings were made in the offseason.
Their 3-0 win down in Waterford, followed by a 3-0 defeat in Inchicore illustrates their inconsistent start to a season that promised much after an impressive opening win over Shamrock Rovers in the Aviva Stadium.
Alan Reynolds will be feeling the pressure for a win. Galway United will travel with confidence. After struggling for goals last season, only St Pat’s have scored more in the opening six. If they can continue their record of scoring in every game, they will be well positioned to continue a fine start to the season and continue to look upwards.
