Latvian U-19 international Markuss Strods made his season debut and second-ever appearance for the Bohemians senior team in today’s League of Ireland fixture, as the Dublin side suffered a 1–2 away defeat to Waterford.
The 18-year-old attacking midfielder, who can also operate as a winger, had been named in the matchday squad three times this season but had yet to feature on the pitch. That changed tonight, during his fourth squad inclusion of the campaign, as Bohemians traveled to face Waterford.
Strods began the game on the bench, but the hosts struck twice late in the first half. Padraig Amond opened the scoring from the penalty spot, and just three minutes later Conan Noonan doubled Waterford’s advantage to 2–0.
Bohemians pulled one back through a well-placed strike from Dawson Devoy in the second half. In the 85th minute, Bohemians head coach Alan Reynolds turned to his young Latvian talent, giving Strods a chance to make his mark.
Markuss made his League of Ireland first-team debut for Bohemians back in October 2024—also against Waterford in Matchweek 35—coming off the bench on that occasion as well.
Though active and energetic during his limited time on the field, Strods couldn’t turn the tide as Bohemians fell 1–2. The loss marks only their second defeat in the last seven matches. After 20 rounds, Bohemians sit third in the league table with 33 points, trailing league leaders Shamrock Rovers by 12.
