Monaghan United -v- Finn Harps
Published: September 03, 2010
In the two previous encounters United had their first of only a few home defeats and then in the away game they shared the points in an unmemorable nil all draw. Since that first defeat the trajectory of the two sides have taken different courses, whereas Harps are struggling in the wrong end of the Table, United are pushing for the top with also a big say in the destinations of the League and FAI Ford Cups.
With all the expected excitement from the two cup competitions it would be a problem for most managers to keep their squads focused but Mick Cooke has a very mature group of lads about him. This Ulster derby should be similar should be similar to previous ones which have always been entertaining and usually attracting a good following from both sides.
“Last week’s contest at Turners Cross turned out much as I expected, there was little between the sides and overall I felt that we shaded it, I believed going into the game that a goal would be sufficient to settle the matter and fortunately we got that vital score”, manager Mick Cooke said.
“Although Cork had their chances I believe that we had more attempts on goal and in the end a two goal winning margin wouldn’t have flattered us. It is good to see the support strengthening from game to game and I complement everyone who made the long trip south to Cork City last week end and yes you were our 12th man”, he concluded.
Monaghan have no injury concerns or suspension issues ahead of the game.
Finn Harps on the other hand need a win to stay above the pack of three teams closely behind while also chasing Cork City seven points ahead.
“We were unlucky in that we didn’t manage to force the game to at least a replay. Both sides created very little, with most of the play between the two eighteen yard boxes. They are a strong side, but I felt that we had the better of the play and the majority of the possession in the second half”, James Gallagher said on last week’s 1-0 FAI Cup defeat to Sligo Rovers.
Gallagher is expecting his side to put it up to Monaghan on Friday night. “Our aim now is to finish as high up the table as we can. We need to be professional and approach our remaining games in the right frame of mind. Monaghan will be a tough fixture on Friday evening as they are going well, but there has never been much in the games between us. We beat them 1-0 earlier in the season down there and they took a scoreless draw from our game in Finn Park. We will approach the game with the right attitude and will be going there looking for a positive result.”
Stephen McLaughlin returns after missing the FAI Cup tie against Sligo Rovers through suspension. Michael Funston (ribs) and Chris Breen (shoulder) are likely to be out for the next four to six weeks. Goalkeeper Ciaran Gallagher remains sidelined.
Monaghan United
Injured: None.
Doubtful: None.
Suspended: None
Finn Harps
Injured: Michael Funston, Chris Breen, Ciaran Gallagher.
Doubtful: None
Suspended: Nine
Extratime prediction: 2-1 to Monaghan.
