Salthill Devon -v- Waterford United

SALTHILL DEVON

Salthill Devon will look to leapfrog second from bottom Waterford United on Friday night when the clubs meet in the Airtricity League First Division.

Salthill have picked up two points from their last two games after three defeats at the start of the season. Jean Biansumba’s second half goal last weekend earned a 1-1 draw at home to Cobh Ramblers. 

Enda Curran’s hat-trick the previous weekend saw a 3-3 draw away to Athlone Town and manager Tony Mannion will be hoping his side can grab their first win of the season against a Waterford United side who are experiencing a poor start themselves.

Coach Jumbo Brennan is looking forward to Friday’s encounter. “Two draws on the bounce have restored some confidence to the squad, but also shown us that we need to learn how to go and win games when we are on top” he said.

“We have virtually a full squad to pick from this week, with only Graham Kelly

doubtful with a hamstring problem. The team have shown that they can score goals and if we can get our concentration right there are games to be won and points to be accumulated.

“The training is great, ‘Maggs’ (John Mannion) is a great influence on the training

ground and in the dugout and the players are upbeat” “We are all looking forward to it”, said Brennan.

Devon will be without Graham Kelly (hamstring) and Adam Hynes (back spasm) for the game.

WATERFORD UNITED

Paul O’Brien’s Waterford United side got their first win of the season last week with an unconvincing 1-0 home win against Athlone Town. Defender David Breen’s second half goal was enough for the win and to resurrect their ailing start to the season.

Their win followed defeats against Mervue United, Longford Town and Wexford Youths to go with their solitary point earned on the opening weekend of the season.

"I think it's a massive result for us because we started off the season very well but took a knock against Mervue, and this put us on the back foot,” manager Paul O’Brien said after the game. “I felt we were a bit laboured in the second half. We're asking the lads to be patient and to build up play but I suppose with human beings, they just want to go forward."

"When things aren't going well there is always going to be a lack of confidence, but as I said a win is a win, and we'll be hoping to push on from here."

Injuries and suspension leave The Blues without five players. Seamus Long’s extra three-game ban rules him out while Peter Keegan continues to miss out with a long-term knee injury. Ben Ryan (hamstring) also misses out again with Francis Rockett (heel), while Vinny Sullivan (groin) is the latest injury concern.

Referee: Rob Harvey.

MATCH STATS

The sides have just six points between them this season from a possible 30 on offer.

The teams have conceded a total of 22 goals between the two this season.

Waterford United beat Salthill Devon in their four league matches last season, with The Blues scoring seven goals and conceding none.

BETTING

Salthill Devon 11/2; Draw 13/5; Waterford United 1/2.

PREDICTION

Last week’s win should give the away side confidence, but Salthill Devon have picked up points in their last two and will make it tough. 1-1.

Salthill Devon

Injured: Graham Kelly, Adam Hynes.
Doubtful: None.
Suspended: None.

Waterford United

Injured: Peter Keegan, Ben Ryan, Francis Rockett, Vinny Sullivan.
Doubtful: None.
Suspended: Seamus Long.