Waterford v Shamrock Rovers - Where can I watch it and what do I need to know?

A rare televised Monday night game sees Waterford host Shamrock Rovers in a game that was originally scheduled for May 31^st.

The original date was postponed after Waterford had two players, Zack Elbouzedi and Aaron Drinan, called up for the Toulon Tournament.

The decision to postpone has arguably not helped the Blues as they had won three from five going into the game, but have since won just two of their ten games in all competitions.

Friday night’s 2-1 defeat to Cork City saw Alan Reynolds’ side slip beneath the Rebel Army into eighth position, four points ahead of Finn Harps in the relegation play-off spot.

The Blues’ goals-against tally of 39 goals is the third-worst in the league, reflective of their position in the table, though their tally of 31 scored does put them in the top half.

Rovers, by contrast, have the second-meanest defence in the league and the second-highest number of goals scored – also reflective of their position in second.

Logic would dictate, then, that Rovers are overwhelming favourites to win the match and the bookies agree, but football doesn’t often go the way of logic.

What time is the match?

Kick-off is 8pm.

Where is the match?

The RSC, Waterford.

Who is the referee?

Dublin’s Rob Harvey is the man in the middle.

Are there tickets available?

Tickets can be bought at the stadium or online here.

Where can I watch it?

The game will be shown live in the Republic of Ireland on Eir Sport 1 with coverage beginning at 7.30pm.

Can I stream it online?

Eir broadband, landline and TV customers can avail of Eir Sport’s online streaming service here.

Who are they key players to watch?

He missed the game with his former club on Friday night through suspension and Waterford’s chances of taking something from game will depend on Shane Duggan.

The former Limerick captain has been a rare bright spot in an otherwise disappointing season for Alan Reynolds’ side, and his haul of five goals is the highest of the players remaining at the club.

He was in electric form in Europe with a goal and six assists across four games, and Jack Byrne was at it again on Friday with an inch-perfect assist for Aaron Greene’s clincher.

Byrne has been named in Mick McCarthy’s whopper 40-man preliminary squad to face Switzerland and another strong display in front of the TV cameras will do his chances no harm.

Team news:

Zack Elbouzedi, Will Fitzgerald and former Hoop Michael O’Connor miss out for Waterford, while Shane Duggan returns from suspension, while Joey O’Brien and Neil Farrugia miss out for Rovers.

Betting:

Waterford 11/2; Draw 10/3; 2/5.