2016 League of Ireland Premier Division
19.45 8 Jul 2016 -
Referee: Paul Tuite
19.45 8 Jul 2016 -
Referee: Paul Tuite
League Preview: Bohemians -v- Bray Wanderers
- Dave Donnelly
- Fri, Jul 08 2016
BOHEMIANS
Bohemians welcome Bray Wanderers to Dalymount Park (kick-off 7.45pm) on the back of a six-game unbeaten run, including three wins in their last four league games.
Keith Long's side went through a sticky patch earlier in the season when they lost six from seven, but are feeling the positive effects of their improved from since.
“Winning breeds confidence. Training becomes easier – players arrive with a bit of a spring in their step,” Long told bohemiansfc.com.
“But we can’t look too far ahead. It’s not that long ago we were talking about our losing streak, so we can’t take things for granted. We need to give a performance on Friday.
“Harry [Kenny]'s come in and done well. They’re unbeaten in three, have strengthened their squad and they will be dangerous opponents.
“It will be another tough game – there’s a few ex-Bohs players in their squad too which always makes it interesting.”
Long will have new signings Shane Supple and Ian Morris available for selection, and Dave Mulcahy has recovered from a virus, but Dan Byrne and Jake Kelly remain doubtful.
BRAY WANDERERS
Bray Wanderers arrive at Dalymount in the best form they've been in all season, after keeping a third straight clean sheet in their 3-0 thumping of Wexford Youths.
The margin of victory ensured that Bray leapt above Youths into tenth position on goal difference, an important psychological advantage as they face into winnable games against Bohs and Finn Harps.
Harry Kenny has a mounting injury list to deal with, however, as Alan Byrne and Alan McNally have picked up medium-term injuries, while Conor Kenna played through the pain barrier on Saturday.
Kenny will have four new signings available in the form of John Sullivan, Tim Clancy, Kevin Lynch and Lee Steacy, Steacy joining from Friday's opponents.
Referee: Paul Tuite.
MATCH STATS
Bohemians emerged winners when the sides met at the Carlisle Grounds in April, with goals from Dan Byrne and Ayman Ben Mohamed securing an easy victory for the Gypsies.
The teams met five times last season: three times in the league and once in each cup.
Bohemians won the first meeting last season at the Carlisle Grounds, before the return at Dalymount was a draw and Bray emerged 3-1winners in the final game.
Dalymount was the venue for the FAI Cup third round match that saw Peter McGlynn's controversial goal secure a win for the Seagulls on their charge to the semi-finals.
BETTING
Bohemians 4/6; Draw 5/2; Bray Wanderers 4/1.
PREDICTION
Bohemians 2 – 0 Bray Wanderers.
Bohemians
Injured: None.
Doubtful: Dan Byrne (hamstring), Jake Kelly (shoulder).
Suspended: None.
Bray Wanderers
Injured: Alan Byrne (hamstring), Alan McNally (groin).
Doubtful: Conor Kenna (calf).
Suspended: None.