League Preview: Drogheda United -v- Finn Harps

DROGHEDA UNITED

Drogheda United are without a win since they last played Finn Harps, 11 games ago, as they welcome Ollie Horgan's side to United Park (kick-off 7.45pm).

The Boynesiders still have the worst defensive and attacking statistics in the league, which doesn't come as a surprise considering they have scored just one goal in their last eight games - and conceded twelve in just their last three games.

"The players would have to be living under a rock not to know the importance of Friday’s game. We’ve under-performed for too long and now is the time to answer our critics," Pete Mahon told www.droghedaunited.ie.

"I think all the teams around us have been getting the odd result lately as well as strengthening in the transfer market and it’s up to us to do the same."

In team news, Mahon will be without the injured trio of Colm Deasy, Gavin Brennan and Stephen Elliott.

In better news for the Drogheda boss, Thomas Byrne is again available after serving a suspension while Richie Purdy has recovered from a hamstring injury.

FINN HARPS

Finn Harps make the trip to Drogheda for what is now a six-pointer, knowing that a win would see them pull four points clear of the relegation zone.

Ollie Horgan's side come into this game after back to back defeats to Shamrock Rovers and Dundalk, losing 1-0 and 4-0 respectively.

However, in the three games prior to the Rovers defeat, they faced sides around them in the table, beating St. Patrick's Athletic and Limerick and playing out a scoreless draw with Sligo Rovers.

No team news has been made available by Finn Harps but Ollie Horgan has no suspension worries.

It was also announced earlier this week that Ciaran O’Connor’s loan spell with the Donegal outfit had ended, with the Dundalk striker moving to Bohemians on loan for the remainder of the season.

Referee: Graham Kelly

MATCH STATS

The first meeting between these sides this season resulted in a 2-0 away win for Drogheda, thanks to goals from Adam Wixted and Gavin Brennan.

The Boynesiders have drawn five and lost five of their ten league games since their 2-0 victory in Ballybofey in April.

Harps have lost six games in their last nine league games since the defeat to Drogheda but unlike the Louth side, Ollie Horgan's men have picked up two wins and a draw.

BETTING

Drogheda United 7/5; Draw 23/10; Finn Harps 19/10.

PREDICTION

Drogheda United 0-1 Finn Harps

Drogheda United

Injured: Colm Deasy, Gavin Brennan, Stephen Elliott.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.

Finn Harps

Injured: None.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.