League Preview: Wexford -v- Athlone Town

WEXFORD

Wexford line out against Athlone Town at Ferrycarrig Park on Friday evening looking to climb back off the foot of the table (kick-off 7.45pm).

Results have steadily improved for the home side after a shocking start to the season. They have had close results with some of the top sides, and managed to take points off Bray and Limerick.

It is these types of games against fellow strugglers that Wexford must win if they are to avoid a last place finish this season.

Manager Brian O’Sullivan addressed the Wexford media team, and discussed last week’s 2-0 home loss to Cabinteely.

"We played really well, created a number of chances on the night but just weren't clinical enough and then we conceded two soft goals that could have been avoided," he said.

"Again we went down to 10 men in another game this season which is killing us.

“The Athlone game now is a massive one for us and we know we need a result so we don't get too far off the pack down around the bottom. They're a good side so nothing will be taken for granted."

Owen McCormack misses out with suspension following his red card last week, Lee Costello misses out with injury and captain Chris Kenny is a doubt after limping off in the defeat to Cabinteely.

ATHLONE TOWN

The visitors' form has gone in the opposite direction to Wexford’s. They had a famous win knocking Dundalk out of the Leinster Senior Cup earlier in the season, and also defeated Bray away from home.

Since that away victory however, they have lost their last five games, most recently 4-0 loss at home to Galway United.

Despite an up and down season so far they are still only six points away from the top half of the table, and would be expecting to get a win on the road tonight.

Their only absentee is winger Darren Meenan, who misses out with a dislocated shoulder.

Referee: Mark Moynihan

MATCH STATS

Jack Doherty and Emmet Nugent lead the way for Wexford with three goals so far in the league, while Galway’s Dean Williams has netted four.

The two sides met in the opening league game of the season with Athlone Town emerging as 4-2 victors.

BETTING

Wexford 29/11 ; Draw 14/5 ; Athlone Town 15/13.

PREDICTION

Wexford 2-1 Athlone Town

Home

Injured: Lee Costello.

Doubtful: Chris Kenny.

Suspended: Owen McCormack

Away

Injured: Darren Meenan (shoulder).

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.