League Preview: Finn Harps -v- Waterford

FINN HARPS

Revenge will be on the minds of all at Finn Harps when they take on Waterford at Finn Park on Friday night (kick-off is at 8pm).

Harps come into this evening’s game with a point to prove after their last game against the Blues – losing 7-1.

And last week, Dave Rogers’ side slipped back to ninth in the table after a narrow 2-0 loss away to Bray Wanderers.

But they have added to their squad in the meantime with Patrick Ferry and Stephen Doherty joining the club just this week.

Ferry joins the club from Ballinamallard United – but will only be available for selection from July.

However, Doherty has returned to Finn Park after previously plying his trade with Dergview in the Irish League.

“Bringing back Stephen Doherty is a fantastic piece of business for us and I am delighted to tie him down on a two-year contract,” Rogers said.

“Stephen is no stranger to Finn Park and the minute we knew he wanted to return and join us for the long term we had to move quickly. 

“His versatility and ability to play in different positions on the left hand side will provide us with greater options throughout the pitch and his enthusiasm and energy and technical skills will add a much needed composure to the squad.”

Ryan Rainey and Ellis Farrar remain out long-term for Harps.

WATERFORD

Keith Long’s Waterford will be out to replicate their five-star performance against Cobh Ramblers last week when they face Finn Harps.

The Blues last clash against the Co Donegal saw them claim a 7-1 win at the RSC in Keith Long’s first game in charge.

But this time the former Bohemians boss will be without Harvey Warren and Darragh Power through injury.

Matthew Connor, however, returns from injury.

“We were happy with our performance last week against Cobh Ramblers; we played some really good football throughout and that is where we need to be going forward,” he said.

“We need to drive on with this group of players and keep working.

“Our fans have been brilliant since we came in, especially on the road and we will need them every step of the way over the remainder of the season.

“Obviously we need to play our part and entertain them, but we need them to get behind us and push us further.

“There are some really positive things happening behind the scenes that will push the club as a whole forward.

“Everyone here is working hard to improve the club and we’ll continue to do our best to play our part on the pitch.”

Referee: Oliver Moran.

PREDICTION

Finn Harps 1-1 Waterford

Finn Harps

Injured: Ryan Rainey, Ellis Farrar.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.

Waterford

Injured: Darragh Power, Harvey Warren.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.