Wexford Youths -v- Waterford United

WEXFORD YOUTHS

Youths picked up 14 points last season winning a meager four games throughout the entire league campaign. Shane Keegan however has brought a renewed sense of optimism to the club. He has managed to whittle down a pre-season squad of 28 players to a more manageable size. The fact they have held onto Danny Furlong is a massive boost.

However Keegan will have to plan for his first game in charge without the services of a suspended Shane Dempsey and an injured Eric Molloy. Dean Broaders who is a doubt.

WATERFORD UNITED

A short trip down the N25 sees Waterford United being their 2012 quest for promotion.  They are coming off a trashing in their final pre-season friendly in Tallaght Stadium and one which will see them glad to be back playing competitive football. Having signed three players from Youths, Packie Holden, Daragh Walshe and Ben Ryan, there will be a level of familiarity between the sides. Brian Nolan moved from Waterford to Wexford to join his brother Shane. Waterford finished fifth last season, but were over 20 points behind the leading pack. This is a gap they will look to close this season.

Paul O’Brien is confident ahead of the forthcoming season. “I'm delighted with the squad. We have a blend of experienced players, good players and good professionals, and that's what I was after. Then we have other young players coming through, and they'll learn from the more senior players.” The manager also believes that the club are a side who should be in the top flight, not the First Division. "A club like Waterford United need to be in the Premier Division. It's very, very important that the Blues get back competing with the big clubs. We've got a job to do, we've got to get promoted and that's the big aim this season."

Waterford make the trip without Packie Holden who is suspended for the clash. Gary Keane, Adam McSherry and David Breen are all injured for the game, though Breen faces a late fitness test.

Referee: Kevin O’Regan.

MATCH STATS

Waterford have only lost once in seven trips to Ferrycarrig.

Daragh Walshe has netted four times in pre-season games for The Blues.

Youths only managed four wins at home last season.

BETTING

Wexford 16/5; Draw 12/5; Waterford United 8/11.

PREDICTION

New manager, new optimism yet same old Youths, 3-1 to Waterford.

Wexford Youths Injured: Eric Molloy.

Wexford Youths Doubtful: Dean Broaders.

Wexford Youths Suspended: Shane Dempsey.

Waterford United Injured: Gary Keane, Adam McSherry, David Breen.

Waterford United Doubtful: None.

Waterford United Suspended: Packie Holden.

Live Update Link: http://extratime.ie/fixtures/detail/18088/1/