League Preview: Cabinteely -v- Galway United

Cabinteely skipper Daniel Blackbyrne

Cabinteely skipper Daniel Blackbyrne Credit: Al Robinson (ETPhotos)

CABINTEELY

First Division rivals Cabinteely and Galway United go head to head at Stradbrook for the first time this season this evening (kick-off is at 7.45pm).

The first game between the sides was due to take place in April, but the game was postponed and subsequently awarded to Galway following a Covid-19 outbreak in the Cabinteely squad.

But both teams have moved on since then with both looking to inspire an unlikely end of season run to help achieve their targets.

Cabo have been unfortunate not to have picked up more results in recent weeks, and their manager Pat Devlin is hoping to build on that this evening.

“We have been working very hard – planning and getting ourselves ready for the game, which is a very tough game.

“We need to get back on the winning trail; and stop giving away silly goals. I think we can achieve that with the aim of three points.

“We’ve been playing very well in recent weeks. But we have been unlucky. We have to take our chances.

“Then take a little bit of luck if it goes our way and get on with it. But we need the right hunger and desire to try and win the game.”

Kevin Knight and Alex Aspil are suspended for the South Dubliners.



GALWAY UNITED

After a week’s break, Galway United return to league action looking to eat into Shelbourne’s lead at the top of the First Division table.

The Tribesmen’s title hopes were all but ended last time out away to Athlone.

But despite defeat, their manager John Caulfield is hopeful that his side can use that setback to refocus the minds.

“A result like the Athlone one can refocus the lads to work on things. We didn't pass the ball well enough or move the ball quick enough, stuff we had done really well a week earlier.

“These things happen, I keep saying every week it is a new challenge. The level and quality of teams in this division is quite similar. If you don't perform on the day you drop points, we have seen that.



“At the end of the day it is over and done with. The last week has given us a chance to prepare and get ready, so we look forward to Cabinteely on Friday.”

Francely Lomboto and Ronan Manning remain unavailable due to long-term injuries. Thomas Oluwa left Galway to join Larne.

Referee: Jason Mannix.

 

BETTING

Cabinteely 5/1; Draw 10/3; Galway United 2/5.

PREDICTION

Cabinteely 0 - 2 Galway United

 

Cabinteely

Injured: None.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: Kevin Knight, Alex Aspil.

 

Galway United

Injured: Francely Lomboto, Ronan Manning.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.

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