League Preview: Finn Harps -v- Shelbourne

FINN HARPS

Finn Harps entertain league leaders Shelbourne FC this Friday night in the Airtricity League First Division, kick off is at 8pm.

Harps are having something of an injury and suspension crisis and could well be without a first choice right-back for Friday’s game. Caoimhinn Bonner’s red card against Galway last week makes him ineligible while Damian McNulty’s injured wrist makes him a doubt for Friday’s clash.

The big news coming out of the Harps camp this week is the announcement that James Doherty has left the club due to work and personal commitments. 

Harps’ manager Ollie Horgan, speaking to the Donegal Democrat, said he pleaded with Doherty to consider his decision.

“I was taken aback. To be honest, I tried to talk him out of it. I tried to get him to change his mind. It’s not just as a player that we’ll miss James, it’s what he brings to the squad and the club. He’s a great lad and his approach is always first class.”

Bonner, McNulty and Doherty can all play at right-back so Horgan will have to make do. Not the best preparation when facing the league leaders and your team’s own form has been poor. 

There was some good news with the return of Ciaran Coll and Kevin McHugh. Both players are expected to be available for selection. 

SHELBOURNE

Shelbourne make the trip to Ballbofey in superb form, eight points clear of second-placed Wexford Youths, though Youths still have a game in hand.

Shels were held to a 0-0 draw at home to Dublin neighbours Shamrock Rovers ‘B’ last weekend and Johnny McDonell’s side will be travelling to Donegal seeking all three points against a Harps team who are second last in the table.

It won’t be easy for the Dublin team but Shels have plenty of quality in their side and are playing some nice football. The sides met at Tolka Park in early April with the home side coming out on top in a 2-0 win.

In team news Shels will be without both Dylan Connolly and Ryan Robinson who are on international duty while John Sullivan is still not match fit. Jordan Keegan played the last fifteen minutes against Rovers B and will be a possible starter on Friday.  

Referee: Adriano Reale

MATCH STATS

Shelbourne are leading the goals with 16 so far this season.

Harps have only lost once at home this season.

This is Shelbourne’s first visit to Ballbofey since 2011

BETTING

Finn Harps 3/1; Draw 9/4; Shelbourne 5/6

PREDICTION

Finn Harps 1-2 Shelbourne

Finn Harps

Injured: None.
Doubtful: Damien McNulty
Suspended: Caoimhinn Bonner

Shelbourne FC

Injured: None.
Doubtful: John Sullivan
Suspended: None.
Unavailable: Dylan Connolly and Ryan Robinson (international duty)