League Preview: Bray Wanderers -v- Athlone Town

BRAY WANDERERS

After losing their first league game of the season, Bray Wanderers take on Athlone Town at the Carlisle Grounds (kick-off is at 7.45pm).

The Seagulls were bested by Cobh Ramblers last time out, and they were hit badly with Alex Moody’s red card in the second-half.

But they can take solace that they still took the game to Cobh despite being a man down at St Colman’s Park.

But Ian Ryan is backing his side to respond in the right way.

“There has to be hurt from losing a game, although we started really well. It has to mean something,” he said.

“We want a reaction from everyone; whoever is on the pitch.

“We’re expecting a tight but good game. We’ve watched them. They’ve attacking players, particularly the people they have brought in from America.

“Those players are really exciting and look as good as anybody in the league. We will have to be right defensively and then try to force our game on them.”

ATHLONE TOWN

After slumping to another loss last week against Galway United, Athlone Town will be hoping to stay in touch with play-off chasing Bray Wanderers.

Dermot Lennon’s side enjoyed an impressive start to the season but have struggled in recent weeks.

A narrow 1-0 win away to Kerry saw them climb the table again – but a recent loss at home to Galway has left them back where they started.

But they can be pleased with their start to the season following their past troubles in previous campaigns.

Athlone have not issued any team news for the game.

Referee: Daniel Murphy.

PREDICTION

Bray Wanderers 2 - 1 Athlone Town

Bray Wanderers

Injured: None.

Doubtful: Dane Massey, Len O’Sullivan, Eoin Farrell, Joe Power.

Suspended: Alex Moody.

Athlone Town

Injured: N/A.

Doubtful: N/A.

Suspended: None.