League Preview: Shelbourne -v- Bray Wanderers

SHELBOURNE

Shelbourne have a chance to seal their return to the Premier Division when they host playoff hunting Bray Wanderers at Tolka Park on Friday evening (kick-off at 7.45pm).

The Reds can secure the First Division crown should they win and Drogheda United drop points against strugglers Athlone Town at Lissywoolen.

Ian Morris’ side were in imperious form against Longford Town last time out when they secured a dominant two-goal win.

Goals from Denzil Fernandes and Greg Moorehouse put the Richmond Road outfit on the verge of the First Division title, with a fervent support in attendance in the Midlands.

Speaking ahead of the game with his club’s media team, Morris has called on the Reds support to help his side over the line as a top-flight return looks closer than ever.      

“You could see it in Longford last time out when the away fans brought the noise and gave the players another edge which helped us massively.

 “We were fantastic down there and created a lot of chances while limiting them to minimal opportunities, they had a bit of a rally late on, but it was a big win for us.

“Bray have a really strong squad, with Premier Division experience and players who can hurt you going forward. It’s a massive game for both clubs.”

Defender Luke Byrne also told extratime.ie; “They’ve given us two of most difficult games this season it must be said.

“We’ve beaten them twice, but they’ve got some really good experienced and young players in there, so we’ll know that they’ll give us a good game.

“We’ll be looking to hit our level like we did tonight and ticking another name off the list.

John Ross Wilson and Daniel Byrne both miss out with injury ahead of Friday’s showdown against the Co. Wicklow side.

Oscar Brennan and Jaze Kabia are also both suspended for the visit of Bray Wanderers. 

BRAY WANDERERS

Bray Wanderers know that they need a big result if they are to continue their chase for the playoffs when they make the trip to face Shelbourne on Dublin’s Northside.

The Seagulls were out of action last week due to their involvement in the FAI Cup ending at the first hurdle against St Patrick’s Athletic at Richmond Park.

Bray took a first half lead before they were pegged back by a Dave Webster equaliser. Recent Saints recruit Glen McAuley scored the winner for Harry Kenny’s side late on.

The Wanderers are unbeaten in the league since their defeat away to Cabinteely in July, with hopes of a playoff finish appearing quite unlikely after the defeat to their East Coast rivals.  

However, wins over Limerick, Athlone and Wexford have seen the Seagulls pick up 11 points from a possible 15 – which has seen Bray catapult themselves back into playoff contention once more.

Should Gary Cronin’s side attempt to blow the First Division title race wide open they will have to do it without Paul Keegan who is suspended.

Full-back Dylan Barnett is also rated as doubtful, but he will undergo a late fitness test prior to kick-off.

Referee: Alan Patchell.

MATCH STATS

Shelbourne have won the previous two meetings between the sides so far this season, winning both games by a one-nil scoreline.

Shels have only been defeated once at home all season, with their defeat against Cabinteely in March being the only time they have been defeated at Tolka Park.

Gary Cronin’s Seagulls have only won four times away from home this season, securing wins against Wexford, Athlone, Cabinteely and Galway United.

BETTING

Shelbourne 4/7; Draw 11/2; Bray Wanderers 7/2.

PREDICTION

Shelbourne 2 - 0 Bray Wanderers.

Shelbourne

Injured: John Ross Wilson, Daniel Byrne.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: Oscar Brennan, Jaze Kabia.

Bray Wanderers

Injured: None.

Doubtful: Dylan Barnett.

Suspended: Paul Keegan.