League Preview: Kerry -v- Longford Town

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KERRY

League of Ireland new boys Kerry welcome Longford Town to Mounthawk Park on Friday night as they continue their hunt for a first win (kick-off is at 7.45pm).

The Kingdom head into Friday night’s game off the back of two consecutive defeats that saw them concede four goals in each.

The most recent of which was a 4-1 loss against Cobh Ramblers, while last Friday they slumped to a 4-0 defeat versus Treaty United.

But their home tie against Longford Town is perhaps their best opportunity yet to secure their first win as a senior League of Ireland outfit.

Stephen Henderson’s side have failed to win on the road this season and are currently closest in the table to Billy Dennehy’s side.

However, Kerry head into Friday’s game without the services of Graham O’Reilly, Steven McCarthy, Wayne Guthrie and Jonathan Hanaffin.

Meanwhile, experienced defender Kalen Spillane has left the club and is unlikely to return due to work commitments.

LONGFORD TOWN

Following their first statement win of the season, Longford Town head to Mounthawk Park with a renewed sense of vigour and purpose on Friday night.



De Town claimed a 1-0 win against the Tribesmen at Bishopsgate on Bank Holiday Monday, their first since their win against Kerry earlier this campaign.

Mohamed Boudiaf’s goal was the difference between the two teams – although the former Drogheda United player was forced off injured shortly after.

And that injury has added another name to Town’s crippling injury list that has halted Henderson’s side in their tracks this season.

Already, Cristian Magerusan, Aaron Walsh, James Doona, Jack Harrington, Oisin Hand, Gavin O’Brien and Francis Campbell are on the treatment table.

However, the severity of Boudiaf’s injury is unclear at the moment – while wideman Derek Daly is set to return.

Daly played for De Town’s under-19s in their midweek derby loss against Athlone Town.



Referee: Mark Houlihan.

 

PREDICTION

Kerry 0 - 1 Longford Town

 

Kerry

Injured: Wayne Guthrie, Jonathan Hanaffin, Graham O’Reilly, Steven McCarthy.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.

 

Longford Town

Injured: Cristian Magerusan, Aaron Walsh, James Doona, Jack Harrington, Oisin Hand, Gavin O’Brien, Francis Campbell.

Doubtful: Derek Daly.

Suspended: None.

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