League Preview: UCD -v- Sligo Rovers

UCD

UCD welcome Sligo Rovers to the Belfield Bowl on Friday night as they begin their home league campaign (kick-off is at 7.45pm).

The Students claimed a point away to Dundalk last week with Ciaran Behan’s free-kick finding the net late on.

The result capped a fine week for Andy Myler’s side, as they also claimed another Collingwood Cup crown thanks to a pulsating final win against UL.

But the Students were left feeling the effects of their long week – with four games played in five days.

And their boss Myler told extratime.com reporter Tom O’Connor: “The lads were given the weekend off.

“We can’t push them too hard but it was a good point. We’ll just rest the bodies and go again for next week (against Sligo).”

UCD will however be without the services of Mikey Raggett for their tie against Sligo Rovers due to injury.

SLIGO ROVERS

After striking late to claim a late draw against Shamrock Rovers last week, Sligo Rovers return to action as they search for their first win of the season.

Lukas Browning’s leveller secured a point for John Russell’s side after they fell behind to a Graham Burke opener in the first-half.

But Russell is wary that his side must be ready for the threat posed by UCD ahead of their trip to the capital on Friday night.

“This weekend’s game against UCD will be another tough test,” he explained. “They had an excellent result and performance against Dundalk in their opening game.

“We only managed to beat UCD once last season. I know some of their players have moved on but, they always seem to have another batch of talented young players coming through.

“We will have to be at our best to get something from the game.”

Sligo Rovers will remain without the services of Gary Boylan, Garry Buckley and Mark Byrne. Meanwhile, Conor Walsh, Niall Morahan and Bogdan Vastsuk are doubts.

Referee: Ray Matthews

PREDICTION

UCD 0 - 2 Sligo Rovers

UCD

Injured: Mikey Raggett.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.

Sligo Rovers

Injured: Gary Boylan, Mark Byrne, Garry Buckley.

Doubtful: Bogdan Vastsuk, Niall Morahan, Conor Walsh.

Suspended: None.