FAI Cup Preview: Wexford Youths -v- Finn Harps

WEXFORD YOUTHS

Ferrycarrig Park is the venue for the third round clash between Wexford Youths and Finn Harps, with kick-off scheduled for 8.00 pm.

Locked in a thrilling battle with Galway FC to see who'll grab the second play-off spot alongside Shelbourne, Youths will welcome Friday night's cup clash as a healthy distraction from the pressure.

Brushing past Bray Wanderers 1-0 back in June to reach this stage, they then went on to suffer heartbreak in the EA Sports Cup against Dundalk, going down 5-0. So, they've not had it all their own way in the knock-out competitions.

But their last-16 tie might well be the inspiration they need to break their duck.

In the lead up to the big clash, manager Shane Keegan shared his thoughts on what the game means to the players.

“The game has come at a good time for us as it's a break from the pressure of the promotion challenge. Don't get me wrong, we will be trying everything possible to win this one too, but it's a different kind of pressure. Momentum is a great thing and after another good performance and result against Shels it's important that we try to keep our current form going .There's no doubt that there's real belief in this group now and nothing will faze them over the remainder of the season.”

FINN HARPS

Keen to reach the quarter-final for the second consecutive season, Finn Harps face a tricky assignment against Youths, and they are boosted by the return of duo Packie Mailey and Damien McNulty.

Slightly off the pace in the chase for the second play-off spot, Harps' only real hopes of getting any silverware, after elimination from the EA Sports Cup by Galway FC a few months ago, now hangs in the balance.

And although it's a tad unrealistic to suggest they could muster up a brave run to the final starting with victory over Keegan's battalion, they really don't have anything to lose in trying.

But Harps chief Ollie Horgan remains realistic about the upcoming tie.

“The Cup draw wasn’t particularly kind to us.

“Away to Wexford was probably the toughest tie we could have got considering the cost, distance and most importantly the quality Wexford have.

“Every game is important to us and we will approach Friday's game in the same manner as all the others.”

Referee: Jim McKell

MATCH STATS

This is the fourth meeting between the pair this season, with each of the last three matches all ending in draws.

This is the second season in succession that Youths and Harps have faced each other in the cup, with last season's match-up ending in a 2-1 win for Harps at home after Eric Molloy guaranteed them safe passage.

BETTING

Wexford Youths 13/10; Draw 21/10; Finn Harps 21/10

PREDICTION

A slim victory for Youths. Home advantage should help. A 1-0 win, perhaps.

WexfordYouths

Injuries: Adam Cox (unavailable)
Doubtful: Andy Mulligan & Craig Wall (both to undergo late fitness tests)
Suspensions: None

Finn Harps:

Injuries: Darragh Black (shoulder)
Doubtful: None
Suspensions: Caoimhin Bonner