Matchday 14 in the First Division is knocking at the door, and it is without a doubt the clash between league leaders Dundalk and second-placed Bray Wanderers that attracts the highest attention when looking at the five fixtures.
Dundalk vs Bray Wanderers
Despite a disappointing 0-0 draw at Athlone, the Lilywhites were able to expand the margin to Bray to four points. The Wicklow club suffered a dramatic 2-1 loss at Cobh, which ended their streak of seven wins in a row. With a victory in this crunch meeting, the table-toppers could even more distance themselves from their opponents. However, Dundalk will especially need an improved offensive performance if they want to beat the Seagulls.
Prediction Dundalk 2 Bray Wanderers 1
Finn Harps vs Athlone Town
After back-to-back losses, the Donegal side will be out for a home win against the bottom-placed Midlanders, who recently gained some confidence after picking up a point against Dundalk. Still, the Harps are the favourites in this clash, having the clear aspiration to stay close to the promotion spots.
Prediction Finn Harps 3 Athlone Town 1
Kerry FC vs Treaty United
Tim-Oliver Hiemer was the man of the match for the Kingdom last week against UCD. The German goalkeeper, who is a product of the Borussia Monchengladbach youth academy, saved two penalties and played a crucial role at Kerry’s 1-0 win in the capital. This result could be a boost for the upcoming fixture against Treaty. Nevertheless, the Shannonsiders are, for their part, in excellent shape, having won their last two league games against Athlone (1-0) and at Finn Harps (2-0).
Prediction Kerry FC 1 Treaty United 1
UCD vs Longford Town
Last Saturday, Longford stunned Wexford with a 2-1 stoppage time winner, ending their streak of six games without a W. At UCD Bowl, the Town hopes to come up with another positive result. On the other side, the Students are looking for a reaction after their unlucky 1-0 loss against Kerry.
Prediction UCD 1 Longford Town 0
Wexford vs Cobh Ramblers
The visitors are the most dangerous team in the First Division, having scored 23 goals this season so far. Furthermore, their current streak with four consecutive wins is quite an achievement. The hosts, who recently lost twice, will need a remarkable performance tonight if they want to stop the high-flying Rams.
Prediction Wexford 1 Cobh Ramblers 1