Finn Harps -v- Mervue United

FINN HARPS

Finn Harps host Mervue United at Ballybofey on Friday night as the Airtricity League First Division resumes after a two-week break. Kick-off is at 8pm.

Harps’ exit to Drogheda in the FAI Cup on Monday night was a disappointing result as the Donegal side fancied their chances of progressing to the semi-finals.

Despite a strong start to the game, Manager Peter Hutton blamed a lack of concentration, and Damien McNulty’s second yellow card, for his sides defeat but warned his players they need to raise their level of play for their last four games of the season.

McNulty’s red card sees him miss Friday’s game while James Doherty (thigh) and Aaron O’Hagan (ankle) are doubts. But Ciaran Coll is available again.

Speaking ahead of Friday’s game, Hutton praised Mervue’s season, but called on his players to see out the remainder of a season, that promised so much early on, with gusto.

“Mervue have had a very good season and will no doubt fancy their chances given that we have had two physically demanding games in such a short space of time,” said Hutton of Friday’s game. 

“It will as always, be a tough game but as I mentioned previously the players should now focus on finishing the season as strongly as possible.”

MERVUE UNITED

The Galway side is still in the hunt for a play-off spot after their most recent league win over Waterford United at Fahy’s Field two weeks previous.

The Blues were on flying form coming into that game but Mervue’s win pegs them back for the time being at least.

Thankfully for Johnny Glynn and Mervue, Stephen Walsh returns to the centre of defence but experienced set piece specialist, left-back Marc Ludden, is suspended after reaching four yellow cards.

Whatever the outcome this season, Mervue are set to break their own point’s record in the league. However, as you may be well aware, some of these players could be plying their trade for another Galway city team next season.

A win on Friday for Mervue will set up a glittering tie at home to Longford Town next week. Speaking about Friday’s game Glynn is taking nothing for granted as he and his team head to the not-so-sunny north east. 

“The break probably doesn’t do us any favours as we had put back to back wins together but we will go to Harps looking for another win to keep us in contention for the play-offs. 

Finn Harps will be a tough one away from home as their home record is good this season and they will be looking to bounce back from their FAI Cup disappointment of the past week.”

Referee: Conor Fitzgerald.

MATCH STATS

Mervue have lost more games (five) than they have won (three) or drawn (four) on the road this season.

In previous meetings between the teams it’s one win and a draw apiece this season.

FAI Cup aside, Harps have only won once in their last six games.

BETTING

Finn Harps 6/4, Draw 9/4, Mervue United 6/4.

PREDICTION

Finn Harps 0-2 Mervue United 

Finn Harps

Injured: None.
Doubtful: James Doherty, Aaron O’Hagan.
Suspended: Damien McNulty.

Mervue United

Injured: Gary Kelly.
Doubtful: Brendan Lavelle.
Suspended: Marc Ludden.