League Preview: Waterford -v- Athlone Town

WATERFORD

Rejuvenated Waterford host Athlone Town at the RSC on Friday night as they look to keep pace with league leaders Galway United (kick-off is at 7.45pm).

The Blues won last weekend against League of Ireland new boys Kerry, but it was far from a convincing display from Keith Long’s charges.

A 70^th minute strike from Ronan Coughlan was the difference between the sides as the Kingdom were eventually broken down.

But the win did at least keep them in touch with runaway leaders Galway who are 10 clear at the summit.

“Last week [v Kerry] was all about getting more points on the board and continuing a good run," Long said. "We knew we needed to be patient and the players were and we deservedly got the goal.

“Athlone Town will prove a very tough task for us, they had a good win against Cobh last weekend and they’ll be full of confidence.

“They’ve got some really good attacking players, so we need to be on guard and really look after every aspect of our game.”

Waterford are expected to be without Matthew Connor and Darragh Power for Friday’s clash.

ATHLONE TOWN

After claiming an important 2-0 win at home to Cobh Ramblers last weekend, Athlone Town will return to action on Friday night at the RSC.

Their win at the expense of Cobh put them just a point behind the Rams, and their hopes this season were further boosted by the appointment of Gordon Brett as boss last weekend.

Brett previously served as joint-manager alongside Dermot Lennon who has returned to his role as Director of Football at the club.

“I’m delighted to accept the role of Head Coach of Athlone Town, a team that I have been a fan of since I was five years old,” he said.

“I grew up with sporting heroes including Padraig O’Connor, Michael O’Connor, Dennis Clarke, and Noel Larkin.

“I look forward to connecting with Dermot and pushing the first team forward for the rest of the season.”

Athlone have not issued team news for Friday’s game.

Referee: Alan Patchell.

PREDICTION

Waterford 2-0 Athlone Town

Waterford

Injured: Matthew Connor, Harvey Warren, Wassim Aouachria.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.

Athlone Town

Injured: N/A.

Doubtful: N/A.

Suspended: None.