First Division Matchday 11 Preview: Who Will Win the Second Midlands El Clásico of the Season? 

BALLYBOFEY, IRELAND – 21 FEBRUARY 2025 – SSE Airtricity Men’s League of Ireland First Division match between Finn Harps and Dundalk FC at Finn Park in Donegal. Photo by Clare McCahill

There is no time to relax in the League of Ireland. After some Friday night entertainment, the next round is scheduled for Easter Monday, with the Premier Division as well as the First Divison going into matchday 11.

Athlone Town vs Longford Town

In their first game after the departure of manager Dário Castelo, Athlone came up with a respectable 1-1 draw against Wexford. This result certainly gives the hosts some boost before the Midlands El Clásico. Meanwhile, Longford hope to show a reaction to their third loss in a row. At Bray Wanderers, they were altogether without a chance and lost 4-0. Longford would probably again agree with the outcome of the first Midlands derby in March, which ended in a 1-1 draw.

Prediction Athlone Town 2 Longford Town 1

Bray Wanderers vs UCD

Against Longford, the Seagulls fetched their fifth consecutive win and demonstrated for another time that they are the team of the hour. There is indication that this run might continue against UCD who lost 1-0 at Cobh on Friday. However, a certain defensive stability could also speak for the visitors. In their last six games, the Students only conceded three goals, which is a sign that they are a tough opponent to play against.

Prediction Bray Wanderers 1 UCD 0

Dundalk FC vs Finn Harps

Three days ago, the Lilywhites missed a victory for the second time this season. At Treaty United, they only achieved a 1-1 draw. Against the Harps, the league leaders will be eager to start another successful run. The Donegal side confirmed their decent form by beating Kerry 4-2 after a 2-1 half-time deficit and now hope to come up with a surprise at Oriel Park.

Prediction Dundalk FC 3 Finn Harps 1

Kerry FC vs Cobh Ramblers

The visitors will be relieved after they finished their losing streak with a 1-0 win against UCD. At Mounthawk Park, the Rams are favoured but should not underestimate the hosts, who here and there were able to show some flashes in the course of this season. Furthermore, it is important to remember that Kerry only sit bottom of the league because of a controversial three-point deduction which was imposed by the FAI some weeks ago.

Prediction Kerry FC 1 Cobh Ramblers 1

Wexford vs Treaty United

It was in the fourth minute of extra-time when Wexford conceded the 1-1 equaliser in their away match at Athlone. Though the outcome was unlucky, Stephen Elliott’s side at least remained unbeaten for the fourth time in a row. The former Premier League player and his squad have the aim to continue this run in order to stay in the promotion race. That also applies for the visitors who on Friday showcased an impressive performance in their draw against table-toppers Dundalk.

Prediction Wexford 2 Treaty United 2

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