Bohemians Season Review

Bohemians’ (Bohs) Airtricity League of Ireland (LOI) 2019/2020 season came to an abrupt end when they crashed out of contention, with a recent loss against Dundalk in their FAI Cup quarter-final clash.  

This loss is no reflection on the highly successful season that manager Keith Long’s side has experienced this year. 

Bohs finished the current season, which was cut short due to the Covid-19 pandemic, in second place, behind Shamrock Rovers with a grand total of 37 points from 18 games. The Gypsies managed an impressive tally of 12 wins, 1 draw and 5 losses, finishing 11 points off the champions’ total. 

This current Bohs side has been built around a solid defence and a potent attack. This translates as only conceding 12 goals, which was second best record in the league. They also scored 23 goals, which was also third best in the Premier Division. 

There were two standout goal scorers for the Dalymount Park outfit this season. Andre Wright netted an amazing eight goals which was tied for third best in the league. Danny Grant bagged an impressive seven goals and was tied for fifth best in the league.  

On top of that strong attacking formation, Bohs also had a solid defence to match. Throughout a total of 18 games, they managed to keep nine clean sheets, which was tied for second best with Waterford FC. 

Throughout the season, Bohs used the services of two outstanding goalkeepers: Stephen McGuinness and James Talbot. McGuinness played in 10 games and had six clean sheets. Talbot played in eight games and had three clean sheets.  

Bohs also experienced the joys of European competition, after an eight-year absence, for the first time since 2012. Due to the pandemic, the fixtures were reduced to a one-game knockout match. Bohs faced Fehérvár of Hungary in their Europa League Qualifier, last August, but unfortunately lost out on penalties, having battled to a commendable 1-1 draw.  

Since Long took the helm in 2014, his Bohs side has improved season after season, with European spots clinched in the last two campaigns. 

This season was close to being perfect for the Gypsies and if it wasn’t for the scintillating performances of their biggest rivals, Shamrock Rovers, Bohs may have won the league title. 

Long has created a dynamic Bohemians team around young, upcoming, talented footballers with also a sprinkling of veteran players added to the mix. This combination has ultimately led his team to a very respectable second place in the league, only behind the unbeaten Shamrock Rovers.  

If they retain most of their current players and maybe add a few new additions, Bohs will be strong contenders for the LOI Premier Division  title next season.