Mervue United boss Tom French was able to pick out many positives from his side's 1-0 defeat to Athlone Town and noted the overall improved performance by his players.

After making three changes to the starting eleven, Mervue narrowly slipped to their first loss of the season as a single goal from Brian McCarthy proved to be the difference between the teams.

Nevertheless, French was happy with the work ethic of his side and thought that they actually performed slightly better from the draw with Limerick in the opening week.

"Overall I'm happy with the performance but disappointed with the result. I thought we deserved at least a draw, but if you don’t put away your chances that’s what happens," said French.

"The lads worked hard all over the park and I thought we handled what they threw at us reasonably well. The lads showed again that they're up for the fight and pushed hard.

"I thought we improved again on our previous performance and know that we will get better as we go along. If we keep improving the way we are then we should have no worries."