League Preview: Limerick -v- Waterford

LIMERICK

The Super Blues welcome the Blues to the Markets Field on Friday following back-to-back 1-0 defeats. Tommy Barrett’s side have steadied the ship somewhat following their 5-0 thumping in Derry, however, that same ship has yet to pick up speed. Having scored just four times in their eight games so far, Limerick fans are hoping that their side can improve their attacking threat.

“It’s a difficult period for us with injuries but hopefully we can get through it, get a result on Friday night and get players back over the next couple of weeks," manager Tommy Barrett told the club's website.

“Waterford are flying it. We have watched them a few times. They’re a very good side. They have brought in some good players; some very good technical players but they are also a big physical side that can play.

“I’m not overly surprised by how well they have started, with the players they have brought in. They seem to have gelled very quickly. But we can only concentrate on ourselves and we always go into games confident.”

Eoin Wearen (groin) remains side-lined, but Daniel Kearns and Danny Morrissey are nearing a return.  Veteran attacker Mark O’Sullivan appears unlikely to face his former side, as he continues to recover from a hand injury.

WATERFORD

The First Division champions have proven themselves to be more than capable at the top table, with Alan Reynolds side looking to keep in touch with Dundalk and league leaders Cork City. Waterford secured a deserved 2-1 victory over Shamrock Rovers last weekend, before progressing in the EA Sports Cup against UCC.

“It’s a massive game against Limerick on Friday night and we’re all looking forward to it," defender Garry Comerford told the club's website.

"Recovery starts not and we’ll prepare for that game like we’ve prepared for every game this season. We need to just keep the momentum going and go try take the three points. That’s what we’ll be aiming for.
 
“Obviously we are unbeaten at home in the league so it would be good if we were able to get our second away win after the win in Sligo. As I’ve said before we need to pick up points away in this division and that’s crucial so we’ll be aiming for that in Limerick.
  
Comerford, who has started five games so far this season, added: “We know that Limerick will be looking to get three points in front of their own crowd.

"It’s a Munster derby at the end of the day and both teams will be wanting to get three points.  It’s going to be an exciting game and one that we’re looking forward too.”

Manager Reynolds will have to plan without attacker Dean O’Halloran and Kildare native Rory Feely, who miss out through injury.

Referee: Unknown.

MATCH STATS

Waterford’s last victory over Limerick came in 2012, when they beat Limerick 1-0 at Jackman Park, they won all four clashes that season, though Limerick went on to win the First Division.

Frenchman Bastien Hery notched one goal in 29 games for Limerick last season before making the switch across Munster.

Limerick have lost four of their last ten home league games.

BETTING

Limerick 15/4; Draw 5/2; Waterford 3/4

PREDICTION

Limerick 0-1 Waterford

Limerick

Injured: Eoin Wearen (groin), Mark O’Sullivan (hand).

Doubtful: Daniel Kearns, Danny Morrissey.

Suspended: None.

Waterford

Injured: Dean O’Halloran, Rory Feely.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.