European ticket allows Pat's to play Cup final with freedom, insists Daly

Together with owner Gareth Kelleher, Daly has plans to use his first season at Richmond Park as a springboard for more success down the line.

FINAL FEVER: Manager Jon Daly poses for a portrait during a St Patrick's Athletic media day. Pic: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Jon Daly admits hitting the target of European qualification allows his St Patrick’s Athletic side the luxury of approaching Sunday’s FAI Cup final with license to play with freedom.

Since the former Ireland Under-21 striker stepped into the managerial post in May after his boss Tim Clancy was moved on, the Saints mounted a late challenge to Shamrock Rovers’ quest for four-in-row before coming up short.