League Preview: Cabinteely -v- Bray Wanderers

Cabinteely host near neighbours Bray Wanderers on the opening night of the season for the second year on the spin (kick off at Stradbrook on Friday night is 7:45pm).

CABINTEELY

Last season was a year to remember for the South Dublin club as they stunned many and managed to come in fourth place in the First Division and secure a playoff position. 

They managed to beat Longford in a decisive penalty shoot-out at the City Calling Stadium and they then faced Drogheda United in a test that deemed to be too tough for them.

“It’s been a hectic six-weeks of pre-season training,” first-team coach and assisntant manager Eddie Gormley told his club’s media team.

“I think the players are looking forward to Friday night and getting the season kicked off.

“It will be a tough game against Bray. Like last season, I don’t think there will be any easy games in the league this year.”

And captain Conor Keeley added; ““I’m absolutely delighted to be named captain. I’m looking forward to leading the team this season.

“We have a lot of new faces. The lads have settled in well within the group. We have a lot of quality players, so competition for places will be there.”

BRAY WANDERERS

Gary Cronin’s side will be dreaming of an opening night just like last year when the Seagulls ran out three nil winners at Stradbrook.

Former player Dylan McGlade scored twice and another former player who was on loan at the time Dean O’Halloran giving Wanderers all three points that night.

They ultimately finished the year in fifth place, as a series of disappointing results prior to the mid-season break cost Gary Cronin’s side dearly.

In terms of team news for the visitors to Stradbrook, the Seagulls will be buoyed by the news that Brian Maher has joined the club on loan from St Patrick’s Athletic.

In addition, Luka Lovic has also re-joined the club after enjoying a breakthrough year with the club in 2019.

Referee: Kevin O’Sullivan

MATCH STATS

In the last three meetings between the sides Cabinteely have drawn one, won one and Bray won one.

BETTING

Cabinteely 21/10; Draw 12/5; Bray Wanderers 13/10.

PREDICTION

Cabinteely 1 - 2 Bray Wanderers

Cabinteely

Injured: None.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.

Bray Wanderers

Injured: Darragh Gibbons (illness)

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.