Third from bottom Athlone Town welcome promotion chasing Waterford United to Lissywoollen this Thursday evening for their Airtricity First Division clash. Kick Off 7.45pm.

Last weekend Athlone Town looked to be on their way to three points against Wexford Youths but for a 92nd minute equaliser to share the spoils. Having played well throughout the game, Brendan Place’s side saw a much needed three points slip through their hands. Debutant Denis Moran had given Athlone the lead with a superb 25-yard free kick.

For Waterford United it was a case of getting back on track last weekend as they overcame Longford Town 2-0. A Kevin Murray header and an Alan Carey penalty moved Waterford back to second place in the table, albeit on goal difference.

A win for Athlone could see them jump two places in the table while an away win would allow Waterford to put daylight between themselves and Monaghan United.

Athlone Town are without long term injury pair Robbie Farrell and Gareth Kenna while mark Nolan sits out this game due to suspension. Jason Hughes suffered a twisted ankle against Wexford and is rated at less than 50/50. Waterford United have no injury concerns ahead of the match. Vinny Sullivan is suspended.

“I am delighted with the clean sheet because we looked solid at the back all through and the midfield players worked hard for the 90 minutes also”, Waterford United manager Stephen Henderson said following their 2-0 win over Longford Town.

“Our two forwards ran their legs off and they looked dangerous every time we got the ball forward. On the downside I don’t think we took the chances that came our way this evening and that is something we must improve on. It took two set pieces for us to win tonight and that is a worry. We had enough chances to score a lot of goals and improve our goal difference”, Henderson said.

Extratime.ie Prediction: Waterford to win 2-1.