As pleasing as Monday's 1-0 victory over Drogheda United was, St Patrick's Athletic manager John McDonnell is stressing the need for his side to maintain focus.
The Inchicore club opened a five point lead over second placed Drogheda courtesy of Colm Foley's well placed header 10 minutes from time.
With the first series of games now concluded McDonnell is proud to see his side riding so high. However, he is urging caution and focus in the weeks ahead.
"This time last season we were also going well, obviously not this well. But we let it slip a little in the middle part of the season and fell off the pace. We have to make sure that doesn't happen again."
His side have regained their footing following three games without a win but the upcoming two-week break threatens to derail momentum at a crucial time.
McDonnell, though, denied his team had wobbled of late and quickly highlighted the 26 points amassed from a possible 33.
"Drogheda went down to Waterford the other week and drew 1-1 and no one said a word about it. We draw with UCD, the team fifth in the league, and people say it's a disaster for Pats!
"It's up to us to keep this momentum. We were on the road a fair bit during the first 11 games, but the next series I think only two of our 11 games are outside Dublin. It won't be as taxing which is good."
Foley's strike handed Drogheda their first league defeat but considering recent injuries manager Paul Doolin conceded it was a good return.
"It was disappointing to lose as I think we deserved at least a draw," he said. "But there's a long way to go in this league, we all know that.
"I still think Cork will be in there, and Pats of course while Bohemians also have a good squad. It's a long league ours and for me it doesn't really get going until the last series of games."
Doolin confirmed captain and striker Declan O'Brien is unlikely to play again this season after sustaining a knee injury in the Setanta Cup win over Drogheda.
"His knee is still swollen and he's waiting to have it scoped but I think you can right him off for the season. He might be back for the last month but at that stage we probably won't bother risking him."
