League Preview: Athlone Town -v- UCD

ATHLONE TOWN

Athlone Town welcome UCD to Athlone Town Stadium (kick-off 7.45pm) hoping the Students aren't the second group this week to leave the ground with more than brought in.

Athlone are still looking for their first win under Roddy Collins after the Dubliner took over for a second time halfway through the defeat to Shelbourne two weeks ago.

Athlone lost that game 2-1, and were soundly defeated on their return to Dublin last week, fallling 2-0 to Cabinteely at Stradbrook Park.

The troubled midland side sit second from bottom, six points ahead of Wexford and behind local rivals Longford Town on goal difference.

A win at home to the Students could potentially see Athlone jump above Longford and Shels, should other results go their way.

Athlone Town have not provided any team news.

UCD

UCD fell to third place in what is becoming a very competitive title race thanks to a 1-0 defeat at home to Cobh Ramblers last Friday.

Matthew Whelan's goal 11 minutes from time sealed the win and lifted the Rams above the Students into second place.

As such, UCD boss Collie O'Neill will see a return to winning ways as paramount if his side are to contend for the sole promotion spot this season.

UCD have not provided any team news.

Referee: Eoghan O'Shea.

MATCH STATS

The sides have met once so far this season, UCD running out 4-1 winners at the Bowl thanks to goals from Gary O'Neill, Daire O'Connor and a brace from Georgie Kelly.

The sides met four times in the league last year, with UCD carrying the edge as they went unbeaten.

The first and fourth matches, at the UCD Bowl and Lissywollen respectively, were drawn 1-1 while UCD won the others 2-1 away and 5-1 at home.

BETTING

Athlone Town 7/2 ; Draw 3/1; UCD 4/6 .

PREDICTION

Athlone Town 2 – 2 UCD

Athlone Town

Injured: Unavailable.

Doubtful: Unavailable.

Suspended: None.

UCD

Injured: Unavailable.

Doubtful: Unavailable.

Suspended: None.