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LOI First Division Matchday 20 Preview: Longford and Athlone Looking for a Win in the Midlands El Clasico

by | Jun 23, 2025 | League of Ireland

It’s a rapid-fire pace in the First Division. After matchday 19 on Friday, the next five games in the league are already scheduled for this evening.

Bray Wanderers vs UCD

The Seagulls are still in third place, but they have recently suffered two consecutive defeats. Against the Students, they are now hoping to achieve success once again. UCD had actually been in good form, but on Friday they lost 3-0 against Cobh Ramblers. Thus, the visitors will approach the short trip to Bray with anger in their hearts.

Prediction Bray Wanderers 3 UCD 1

Cobh Ramblers vs Kerry FC

After their own victory against UCD and Dundalk’s draw against Treaty United, Cobh were able to reduce the gap to the table-toppers to four points. Will the Rams’ comeback continue against Kerry? The task could prove to be tricky, as the Kingdom has recently earned seven points from three games and is close to the playoff spots.

Prediction Cobh Ramblers 1 Kerry FC 0

Finn Harps vs Dundalk

After the draws against UCD and Treaty United, Dundalk’s lead over the second-placed Cobh Ramblers has shrunk. A victory against Finn Harps is a must for the league leaders, especially since the hosts are in poor form and have now slipped to second-to-last place.

Prediction Finn Harps 1 Dundalk 2

Longford Town vs Athlone Town

The Midlands El Clasico could turn into an interesting affair, as both sides were able to impress lately. Longford won in Wexford on Friday, while Athlone drew 0-0 against Finn Harps. Thus, the guests are still unbeaten under their new coach Ian Ryan (two draws). In their first two encounters in this season, both teams were mostly on the same level. The games respectively ended in 1-1 draws.

Prediction Longford Town 2 Athlone Town 1

Treaty United vs Wexford

For the third time this season, Treaty United managed to remain unbeaten against Dundalk. After the 1-1 at Oriel Park, the Shannonsiders want to build on it with a win today. Wexford were disappointing in their recent loss to Longford and hope to show a reaction tonight at Markets Field.

Prediction Treaty United 2 Wexford 2

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