League Preview: Bohemians -v- UCD

BOHEMIANS

Third place Bohs will be looking to bounce back after their mid-week defeat in Dundalk when they take on ninth place UCD at Dalymount Park on Friday evening (kick-off 7.45pm).

The Gypsies came out on the end of a heart-breaking 1-0 defeat to the Lilywhites on Monday evening, albeit with a much-changed side, despite enjoying large spells of dominance at Oriel Park. 

However, Keith Long’s side will have no time to feel sorry for themselves when they host an ever improving UCD who are beginning to take to life in the Premier Division. 

This sentiment is echoed by Gypsies playmaker Keith Ward who is expecting a tough challenge against Collie O'Neill's young side.   

"UCD are 10 games in now and they will know a lot about themselves now and about the division compared to when we last played them,” said Ward.

"They have come on a lot already and will keep improving. They like to play the right way and will be tough opposition.

"It's a very competitive division and there are no easy games - everyone knows that."

He added: "It's great seeing big crowds in Dalymount. I've had people on to me looking for tickets we as players can't even get hold of!

"It's great as a player to come out to see a packed stand hopping like that. In previous seasons you might have had three or four games like that.

"But last year the crowds were up a good bit and the Jodi has been full for four games we've played so far this year.

"That pushes players on even more. They're there to see you, to support you and we take pride in that. You don't want to let them down."

UCD

Having produced a stirring fightback win over Cork City on Monday evening with a late, late show, UCD will be hoping to back up their most recent win with another three points at the spiritual home of Irish football. 

The Students last win in Phibsborough came all the way back in 2013 with a 3-1 win. Cillian Morrison, David O’Connor and Dean Clarke all scored for the Belfield outfit on that occasion. 

With the most recent win over Cork City coming in the way it did, UCD boss Collie O’Neill admits that he was pleased to see his prevail despite being behind for most of the game. 



“We dug in deep against Cork City and kept going until the last minute. We dominated possession in the second half, didn’t panic, and completed a great come back to secure the three points. 

“Perhaps we got a bit lucky with the first goal, but Yoyo (Mahdy) did well to hit the target and force the mistake. 

“Then Gary (O’Neill) was his normal self and he stepped up, held his nerve and calmly slotted it home to secure a big three points.”

Referee: Paul Tuite. 

MATCH STATS

Collie O'Neill has opted for a rather settled side upon the Students return to the Premier Division. Eight players have started in all of the side’s recent games. 



Bohemians striker Dinny Corcoran is the fourth leading goalscorer in the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division with four goals to his name, just one of top spot. Aaron Drinan, Patrick Hoban and Aaron McEneff have all scored just the one goal more than the ex-UCD hitman. 

The Students have the best disciplinary record in the Premier Division. Only UCD and Waterford have not had a player dismissed so far this year. 

The Gypsies have four ex-UCD players in their 2019 squad. Niall Corbet, Ryan Swan, Dinny Corcoran and 2009 First Division winner Keith Ward have all plied their trade at the Bowl once before.    

BETTING

Bohemians 4/7; Draw 11/4; UCD 9/2.

PREDICTION

Bohemians 1-1 UCD

Bohemians

Injured: Christian Magerusan.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.

UCD

Injured: Evan Osam. 

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.

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