It’s a busy weekend ahead for the First Division teams, with matchdays being scheduled for tonight and also for Monday afternoon. Our preview for the Friday games:
Bray Wanderers vs Treaty United
The third-placed Seagulls have been impressing with strong performances for weeks and are currently managing to win tight games as well. In the hard-fought 2-1 win last week in Longford, 17-year-old talent Billy O’Neill scored both decisive goals. On Friday, Bray also announced the signing of 20-year-old midfielder Justin Ferizaj, who most recently played for Italian club Frosione and previously for Shamrock Rovers. The euphoria is high among the Wanderers. However, they should by no means underestimate the opponent from Limerick, who also has great ambitions.
Prediction Bray Wanderers 2 Treaty United 2
Cobh Ramblers vs Longford Town
After a rather disappointing 2-2 draw at Finn Harps, the Rams are again six points behind league leaders Dundalk. Against Longford, who put up a decent fight in their bitter loss to Bray, the favoured hosts are again aiming for a victory.
Prediction Cobh Ramblers 3 Longford Town 1
Kerry FC vs Athlone Town
In the league, the Kingdom recently lost five games. Even off the field, things don’t seem to be going too well for Kerry. The club parted ways with two players this week, one of whom had only been signed a few days earlier. In a brief statement, Kerry FC explained, “Mathyas Randriamamy and Shane Maroodza have been released from Kerry FC. Unfortunately, their values and principles didn’t match the standards of the club.” Maybe tonight against Athlone the hosts will finally achieve success again. Against the Midlanders, Kerry recently prevailed in the FAI Cup with a 2-1 victory after extra time.
Prediction Kerry FC 1 Athlone Town 1
UCD vs Dundalk
The Students have established themselves in the playoff spots thanks to a respectable streak. In the past nine league games, UCD lost only one. The top-placed visitors should therefore be aware of a strong opponent.
Prediction UCD 0 Dundalk 1
Wexford vs Finn Harps
Despite a decent performance, Wexford lost 3-2 at Dundalk last week. Against the Harps, the hosts need a win if they want to stay in touch with the playoff spots. Meanwhile, the Harps hope to confirm their good form from the game against Cobh Ramblers.
Prediction Wexford 1 Finn Harps 1