League Preview: Cobh Ramblers -v- Waterford

COBH RAMBLERS

Cobh Ramblers take on Waterford in their first home Munster derby of the season at St Colman’s Park on Friday night (kick-off is at 7.45pm).

Shane Keegan’s Rams are riding the crest of an impressive early wave and won their last league game against Bray Wanderers last weekend.

But Keegan is expecting Waterford to give his side an even tougher game than the one they got against the Seagulls.

“As tough as last week was, this week will be even tougher,” he said.

“For some reason that didn’t click for them at the start of this year but what a management team they have in place now with Keith Long and Alan Reynolds.

“Any Premier Division side would be delighted to have them on board and it’s incredible for First Division standard.

“I know them both well and they are some of the best coaches in the country. Last week they scored seven goals but we’re in a good place ourselves and looking forward to the challenge.

“It’s hard to believe that the first series of games is nearly over. We’re ahead of the curve in terms of where we planned to be.

“It’s very early days but we’re delighted with where things are and let’s see if we can come up with another positive result.”

Liam Kervick is ruled out as he is unable to play against his parent club under the terms of his loan.

WATERFORD

After a stunning win at home to Finn Harps last week under new boss Keith Long, Waterford will be looking to back up their win with a similarly impressive performance against Cobh Ramblers.

The Blues ran out 7-1 winners against Dave Rogers' men last week but face a far stiffer test against Ramblers in their first Munster derby of the season.

“We’re really looking forward to the challenge on Friday night,” Long told his club’s media team.

“Cobh have had a great start to the season and have done very well with an experienced manager and backroom team so it’ll be a very difficult place to go.

“We need to perform to our very best if we want to get something from the game.

“Last week was a great start coming into the club. The players have been very receptive and have worked extremely hard this week and we’re looking to build on that performance, and improve week to week as a group.”

Matthew Connor, Chris Conn-Clarke and Darragh Power are all ruled out through injuries.

Referee: Gavin Colfer.

PREDICTION

Cobh Ramblers 0 - 2 Waterford

Cobh Ramblers

Injured: None.

Doubtful: None.

Unavailable: Liam Kervick.

Suspended: None.

Waterford

Injured: Matthew Connor, Chris Conn-Clarke, Darragh Power.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.