The First Division play-off chase

The First Division comes to an end this weekend and three teams are still chasing the two play-off positions.

Longford Town, Waterford United and Mervue United are all still in the hunt for the two spots for a chance to face the 11th placed Premier Division team for a place in next season’s Premier Division. Athlone Town clinched the title against Waterford United two weeks ago to leave three teams chasing just two spots.

Longford Town sit second in the First Division table on goal difference from Waterford United, with Mervue United just one point back. This weekend sees all three teams playing away from home, with any slip-up proving potentially fatal.

A win for Longford Town and they are guaranteed a play-off position. The same applies to Waterford United, who if they win, will be guaranteed a play-off spot. A win for Mervue United won’t necessarily guarantee a play-off spot, but Johnny Glynn’s side need a win and to hope that either Longford Town or Waterford United slip up. Once Mervue United don’t better their results, Longford Town and Waterford United will remain in the play-off spots and battle for the chance of promotion.

All three teams did the required last weekend to maintain their play-off chances. Longford Town left it late to take the three points from their home tie with Wexford Youths.  Gary Shaw popped up with just five minutes remaining to help Tony Cousins’ men to a 2-1 win.

Third placed Waterford United eased past bottom team Salthill Devon at the RSC. Goals from Kevin O'Connor, Conor Meade, Paul Quilty, Philip Drohan and Vinny Sullivan saw The Blues run out 5-0 winners in the RSC.

Mervue United also kept up their chance with a 2-0 win at home to Cobh Ramblers. Gary Shanahan and Stephen Walsh got the goals for United as they maintained some hope in the play-off race.

Second placed Longford are away to Division 1 champions Athlone Town in their final league match. Longford Town beat Athlone in their two first meetings of the season, but have been downed by Roddy Collins’ men in their last two clashes.

Waterford United travel to Cobh Ramblers in their final match. The Blues needed two penalties last time out in St Colman’s Park and have beaten Cobh in two of their three meeting this season already.

Mervue United need a helping hand from Cobh or Athlone if they are to make the play-offs. They travel to Ferrycarrig Park to face Wexford Youths needing a win. United have one win, one defeat and one draw against Shane Keegan’s side this season to date.

Whatever happens, keep up to date with Extratime.ie throughout the match night for match updates.