Preview: Limerick 37 vs Longford Town

Both Limerick 37 and Longford Town go into Friday’s clash at Jackman Park looking to bounce back to winning ways in the Eircom League First Division. Longford were beaten by League leaders Dundalk last Saturday evening at Flancare Park while Limerick 37 were unlucky not to come away with anything from Morton Stadium last Friday night against newcomers Sporting Fingal. Kick-off is at 7:45p.m.

Both these sides last met in the FAI Cup quarter final last season when Longford were 3-1 winners at Flancare Park. Friday night’s game should be a tougher task for Longford Town, who are looking forward to their second trip to Munster this season.

Limerick 37 welcome new signing Peter White into the squad for Friday’s game. Peter White signed forms for the 2008 season last Wednesday and Mike Kerley is expected to hand White his first start of the season against Longford. Peter White spent last season with Limerick but he wasn’t named in Limerick’s original squad for the season. He will be a welcome addition to the young Limerick squad.

Speaking to the Limerick Leader, Limerick 37’s CEO Andrew Mawhinney said: “Three months ago the club nearly went out of business and now we find ourselves trying to be competitive on a very small budget. The attendance (555) at the Wexford Youths game was disappointing. Our target is to attract 1,000 to our games. Essentially that would mean a regular income of €10,000 (€10 entry fee) which would cover the running costs of the club and ensure the survival of the club. We have a game plan to promote Friday night soccer in this city and if we can achieve that goal then Limerick 37 has a future.” Limerick’s supporters have been told by those at the club, not to expect much on the pitch this season. Friday’s game against Longford should be an indicator to how well Limerick’s young squad will cope against the stronger teams in the First Division.

Neither side has suspensions to worry about but Limerick 37 are without their influential captain Pat Purcell through an injury he picked up in pre-season. Limerick’s Derek McCarthy has also suffered an injury setback and is expected to miss this game with a hamstring problem. Longford have no new injury worries and go into this game with a full squad to choose from, with Ronan Frawley returning from suspension.

Verdict: Longford to win in a closely fought game.