Bohemians manager Keith Long insisted that the league table is irrelevant at this point in the season after his side's hard-won point in the RSC preserved their status as leaders after four rounds of matches.
Bohs' early season winning streak was brought a close by Waterford last night but their excellent defensive record remains. Four games in and Long's side have yet to concede a goal in the 2019 season.
Long was reasonably content with the result, praising his team's defensive resilience and solidity. However, he was not inclined to trumpet their current status as league leaders.
"We had to work extremely hard to get the point tonight," Long told RTÉ Sport afterwards.
"In the first half, we were possibly the better team though there wasn't a huge amount in it. I thought we played some decent stuff when we were able to get on the ball. In the second half, Waterford came on strong and we had to withstand numerous corners and free kicks, they loaded the box but to a man, our boys stood up. Another clean sheet.
"We had to go through a little bit of pain to come away with the point but it was a good learning curve for the boys. That's really what the league is about. It's about the big Dublin derbies every week. It's about coming to places like Waterford to follow up what we've done so far.
"We've been solid defensively and tonight was no different. I thought the goalkeeper and the back four were excellent but also the boys in front of them.
"The table is immaterial. I don't think anyone is too conscious of it at this point. It's nice that we've got off to a great start this season, it's nice that we've kept another clean sheet and came away with a point."
For Waterford boss Alan Reynolds, the game was a mixed bag but the result was about fair.
"First half, we weren't good. They started better but in the second half, we were really strong and really good. But overall, a draw was a fair result.
"It's been tough, having three games in seven days early in the season. Mentally and physically you've got to be strong.
"There were a lot of draws tonight (in the Premier Division). A couple of wins and you'll move yourself right up."
