League Preview: Shelbourne -v- Wexford Youths
Credit:
SHELBOURNE
Shelbourne will begin their bid for promotion back to the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division when they host Wexford Youths at Tolka Park on Friday night (kick off 8pm).
Johnny McDonnell's side, who finished bottom of the Premier Division in 2013, managed to play three games in pre-season. They were beaten 5-0 by Shamrock Rovers at the AUL, drew 1-1 with Bohemians and beat Shamrock Rovers B 3-0 at Tolka Park.
Robbie Gaul will not play on Friday because of a shoulder injury. Keith Quinn misses out through suspension.
WEXFORD YOUTHS
Wexford Youths finished 5th in Division one last season, 22 points behind Athlone Town. Similar to Shelbourne, they saw their pre-season schedule disrupted by the weather. The visitors should be boosted by the return of Rosslare native Danny Furlong to their squad.
However vice-captain Aidan Keenan is serving a one match ban, therefore he will not be available for the visitors. Ben Ryan is doubtful after rolling his ankle in the 2-0 pre-season victory over Drogheda United. Both Dean Broaders and Eric Molloy will face late fitness tests.
MATCH STATS
During Keith Quinn's three year spell at Sheffield United he captained their youth side.
The last meeting between the two sides in February 2012 ended in a 4-1 win for Shelbourne in the Leinster Senior Cup.
Wexford's last away win against Shels was in May 2010 when they emerged victorious by two goals to one.
BETTING
Shelbourne 4/6, Draw 12/5, Wexford Youths 4/1.
PREDICTION
Shelbourne 2-1 Wexford Youths
Referee: B Connolly.
Shelbourne
Injured: Robbie Gaul.
Suspended: Keith Quinn.
Wexford Youths
Injured: None.
Suspended: Aidan Keenan
