League Preview: Longford Town -v- Waterford

LONGFORD TOWN

Longford Town host Waterford at Bishopsgate on Friday night as they seek to keep their hopes of reaching the First Division play-offs alive (kick-off is at 7.45pm).

Stephen Henderson’s men come into the game against the Blues having drawn against Kerry in their last league outing almost a fortnight ago.

And that draw means Town are now four points behind fifth-placed Wexford in the play-off chase.

Since then, Longford played a friendly against Shelbourne last weekend at Tolka Park but lost that encounter 5-0 at Tolka Park.

But they will at least take confidence from their recent performances against Waterford this season, having recorded three draws in each game so far this season.

In terms of team news, midfielder Viktor Serdeniuk will miss out through suspension as he serves the first game of a three-match ban.

WATERFORD

Ryan Burke returns from suspension as the Blues visit Bishopsgate for the second time this season.

And his return is likely to provide Keith Long’s side with a big boost after their most recent display last weekend against Cobh Ramblers.

Waterford were bested 2-0 at home by Shane Keegan’s men with Jack Doherty and Brendan Frahill both netting.

And that defeat compounded Waterford’s woes with quartet Barry Baggley, Ronan Coughlan, Rowan MacDonald and Harry Nevin all injured.

But crucially, the defeat means that Galway United need just one more point to win the First Division – if Waterford win away to Longford.

The Blues have already secured their spot in the play-offs, however.

Referee: Ray Matthews.

PREDICTION

Longford Town 2-1 Waterford

Longford Town

Injured: N/A.

Doubtful: N/A.

Suspended: Viktor Serdeniuk.

Waterford

Injured: N/A.

Doubtful: Harry Nevin, Barry Baggley, Rowan McDonald, Ronan Coughlan.

Suspended: None.