Limerick FC -v- Sligo Rovers

LIMERICK FC

Limerick's return to the Premier Division has been a success both on and off the field so far, but the first real crisis has arrived on Shannonside ahead of the visit of Sligo Rovers. Limerick will have to do without five of their senior players while another six face late fitness tests.

Last week's trip to UCD not only left a sour taste in the mouth of Limerick fans who witnessed six guilt-edge opportunities to win the game pass the Blues by, but it also left a big hole in Stuart Taylor's selection pool for the Sligo game.

Robbie Williams will miss out due to a stomach injury that was brought on by his groin strain. Pat Purcell fractured his ankle after an awkward landing in Belfield, Jeffrey Judge faces suspension following his red card against the Students while Steven McGann broke his foot against Waterford United on Monday. Dominic Foley is still unavailable.

Speaking ahead of the game against the champions, Taylor seemed in a positive mood. “I'm confident that we'll go and play well. I'm confident that we'll go and work hard and confident that we'll have spells with the ball and create chances. Sligo, like other clubs, know the type of team that we are, and they're preparing for that. Everyone is giving us respect now and I'm happy about that. We'll have to wait and see what kind of system we'll play because of all the injuries, but I'm confident no matter who plays, we'll control the game in spells.”

SLIGO ROVERS

The Champions make the trip to Thomond Park in need of a win to maintain their grip on top spot. Ian Baraclough's charges will be confident of getting all three points given the size of Limerick's injury list.

After an unconvincing scoreless draw in Bray, the Bit O'Red had their league game against Dundalk called off, but luckily for them, Mervue United in the EA Sports Cup was right around the corner. Sligo ran out 4-0 winners but will know a tougher test awaits on Shannonside.

Sligo will be without the services of Evan McMillan who is set for a minor knee operation but David Cawley and Gavin Peers return from suspension. Ciaran Kelly and Seamus Conneely are both available after recovering from their respective injuries.

Ian Baraclough expects a tough test in Limerick; paying testament to the way Lims played up in the Showgrounds back in March. “The first meeting of the sides was very tight, it could have gone either way. Jeff Henderson scored a late goal and there was a penalty decision at the end of the game that went with us. It was one of the most difficult league matches in The Showgrounds for us this season.

“Limerick are a good footballing side, they have a strong back four, some excellent midfield players and strikers that don’t give you a moment’s peace. Combine the three and it means a tough task for any side. Any promoted club will always take time to get to the level they desire and Limerick are knocking on the door of the top half of the table already. Stuart has come in late in the day and put together a group of players that are improving all the time and will continue to do so as the season goes on.”

Referee: Anthony Buttimer.

MATCH STATS

Sligo are averaging just over .56 goals conceded per game away from home. That is the best away defensive record in the league.

No side has come to Thomond Park and scored more than a single goal this season.

Limerick have only scored six goals at home in the Premier Division this year. Half of those were against UCD and two were from set pieces against Bohemians. The only other goal was Craig Curran's strike against Shamrock Rovers.

BETTING

Limerick; 10/3 Draw; 5/2 Sligo; 4/5.

PREDICTION

Limerick FC 1-3 Sligo Rovers

Limerick FC

Injured: Pat Purcell, Robbie Williams, Steven McGann, Dominic Foley.
Doubtful: Barry Ryan, Shaun Kelly, Brian O'Callaghan, Aaron Brown, Shane Costelloe, David O'Leary, Craig Curran.
Suspended: Jeffrey Judge.

Sligo Rovers

Injured: Evan McMillan.
Doubtful: None.
Suspended: None.