League Preview: Cabinteely -v- UCD

CABINTEELY

Cabinteely will be looking to bounce back from last weekend’s 1-0 defeat away to Galway United as they take on local rivals UCD at Stradbrook (kick-off is at 7.45pm).

Cabo were undone by a Wilson Waweru winner at Eamonn Deacy Park last time out – but they remain in the playoff positions on 18 points.

That trip to the Corrib was their second away league game in a row – and they have yet to play a home league game at Stradbrook since their 2-0 loss at home to Wexford.

And ahead of Friday’s game, Cabo boss Pat Devlin is expecting a difficult game against the Students.

“UCD are our bogey team – they always do well against us. We are looking forward to the game. But it is going to be a tough game against a very good side.”

He continued: “You want to win every game - no matter who it is against. UCD are very well respected in the league, and football in general.

“They will be strong opposition. But we have to be up to that challenge.”

Defender Andy O’Brien (knee) and goalkeeper Adam Hayden (hand) are out injured.

UCD

After last weekend’s dismal showing away to Bray Wanderers, UCD visit Cabinteely looking to rectify their non-showing at the Carlisle Grounds.

A brace from Bray’s Darren Craven proved to be the difference between the sides last time out as the Seagulls eased to a 4-0 win.

Joe Doyle would then pile on the misery late on with a double off the bench to ensure a wretched night for the Belfield boys.

And that defeat saw them slip to 11 points behind league leaders Shelbourne having been just five behind the Reds prior to the mid-season break.

But they will be looking to rectify that showing last week at a ground where they won 3-0 at last season.

In terms of team news, Jack Keaney is expected to continue his return to full fitness after a recent injury. Harry McEvoy is also expected to remain out.

Referee: Gavin Colfer.

MATCH STATS

This will be the 17th league meeting between the clubs – and it is UCD who have dominated most of the games, winning 13 times. They have only lost and drawn twice to Cabinteely before.

BETTING

Cabinteely 23/10; Draw 3/1; UCD 5/6.

PREDICTION

Cabinteely 1 - 0 UCD

Cabinteely

Injured: Adam Hayden, Andy O’Brien.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.

UCD

Injured: N/A.

Doubtful: N/A. 

Suspended: None.