League Preview: Wexford -v- Bray Wanderers

WEXFORD

Wexford have had an extremely tough start to the 2019 First Division season and are still looking to get their first point on the board as they welcome table-toppers Bray Wanderers (kick-off 7.45pm).

They are leaking goals at the back and struggling to score at the front with a -14 goal difference and four defeats from their opening four games.

League leaders Shelbourne put them to the sword last Friday night, winning 3-0, but there were positives for Wexford with defender Darragh O’Connor making his debut for the club.

The 19-year-old was happy enough with his own performance and feels Wexford are improving game by game.

"The Shels game was a baptism of fire, but I loved it,” the former Shamrock Rovers defender told the club’s media team..

“I thought on a personal level I played well and the partnership with Sean Callan was built a year ago at Shamrock Rovers.

“The performances have been improving every game and we're feeling confident about getting a result on Friday night against Bray.

"Wexford FC feels like home to be honest. I grew up around the corner and as a kid I remember going to the matches. Hopefully the fans will get behind us tomorrow night."

Having returned from a suspension last week, striker Danny Furlong may make his first appearance at home since signing back for the club.



However, Chris Kenny is missing with injury, while Liam McCartan, Ben Brown and Mark Birrane have all left the club due to work commitments.

BRAY WANDERERS

The first blip of the season came last weekend for Bray Wanderers where they fell to a 1-0 defeat against Athlone Town.

That result leaves Gary Cronin’s side in a three way tie at the top of the table with Athlone and Shebourne on nine points.

They travel Wexford hoping to make it three wins from three on the road so far this season, having already beaten Galway United and Cabinteely away from home.

On Monday afternoon the Seagulls lost to Cabinteely in the fourth round of the Leinster Senior Cup, their second straight defeat bringing to an end their interest in the competition for the year.



Having only conceded one goal in four league games so far this season Cronin will be hopeful his side can pick up a positive result and ensure they maintain the pace at the top of the table.

Referee: Graham Kelly

MATCH STATS

The last meeting between these sides was two weeks ago in the EA Sports Cup first round.

Wanderers won the game 3-2 thanks to goals from Derek Daly, Dylan Barnett and Dylan McGlade, though goals from Ryan Nolan and Sean Roche made for a nervy finish.

Wexford are still looking for their first point of the season having lost their opening four league games.

BETTING

Wexford 13/1; Draw 6/1; Bray Wanderers 1/8.

PREDICTION

Wexford 0-3 Bray Wanderers

Wexford

Injured:  Chris Kenny.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.

Bray Wanderers

Injured: Unknown.

Doubtful: Unknown.

Suspended: None.