Waterford United -v- Longford Town

WATERFORD UNITED
Waterford United  go into this game at the RSC knowing they have a distinct advantage after the excellent result they achieved last Saturday in Flancare Park. The Blues lead Longford Town by two goals at the half way stage of this two-leg First Division play-off.

Waterford boss Paul O’Brien has almost a full strength squad to choose from on Friday night as defenders Seamus Long and Jamie Cross return from suspension. The only absentee will be long-term injury victim, Gary Dunphy.

Speaking after the first-leg last Saturday night Paul O’Brien said, “I’m obviously delighted and very proud of the players after this result tonight, but this is only half time and we cant get overly excited about it all. We won back here in July so we knew we could do it again, and getting of to the perfect start with a goal inside the opening minute certainly helped out our cause to go on and win the game. We knew that Longford are a quality side, but the early goal and our display during the opening 20 minutes gave us confidence to kick on and get the result we wanted.

All week we were determined to put on a good performance and I couldn’t ask much more to be honest with you. There is a great deal of confidence in the squad at the moment and it showed here tonight. We know that we have a tough week ahead to get the job done, but I’m sure that the players will be up for the challenge ahead at the RSC on Friday night”. 

LONGFORD TOWN
Longford make the trip to Suirside this week looking to overturn the odds and gain a place in the promotion/relegation play off. If they can turn this tie around, their reward will be a two legged contest against Dundalk, starting next Tuesday in Oriel Park. 

Longford will take solace from the fact they have beaten Waterford this season at the RSC in May by a scoreline of two goals to nil. Also, Waterford has only managed to win one of their last six home games. Despite these positive omens, after last Saturdays game Longford have not scored in three games and to keep their chances alive of promotion they will need goals on Friday night. 

Longford boss, Tony Cousins will be hoping that his team do not concede a goal within one minute on this occasion and if their season is to end on Friday night that at least they will go down with a fight.

Referee: Keith Callanan.

MATCH STATS
The first leg win was Waterford’s third straight win against Longford but the Midlanders won the first two meetings between the clubs this season.

Longford have lost their last five games.

Waterford has lost three of their last six home games. 

BETTING
Waterford 4/5; Draw 12/5; Longford 3/1.

PREDICTION
Longford’s desperation to save their season combined with Waterford’s recent poor home form will lead to this finishing in a 2-2 draw.

Waterford Injury News: Gary Dunphy (Hip).
Waterford Suspension News: Jamie Cross.

Longford Injury News: None available.
Longford Suspension News: None.