League Preview: Longford Town -v- Waterford

LONGFORD TOWN

Longford Town head into this weekend’s clash against Waterford knowing that a win would put them level on points with fifth-placed Athlone Town (kick-off is at 7.30pm).

Stephen Henderson’s side have impressed recently and have moved up to 17 points – three behind Athlone on 20.

They have also picked up 10 from their last five games – with only Galway United picking up more during that period.

Town also possess the third-best defensive record in the second-tier, conceding just 18 goals in 16 games.

However, they have been dealt with a number of injuries.

Oisin Hand, James Doona, Cristian Magerusan, Aaron Walsh and Francis Campbell are all expected to be out – while Jack Brady and Aodh Dervin have returned from suspension.

WATERFORD

Keith Long’s Waterford know that they must keep winning if they have any hope of catching leaders Galway United at the summit.

The Blues are 100 points behind the Tribesmen and it appears unlikely that they will be able to claw that deficit back.

However, a 4-0 win away to Finn Harps last week will give them belief that they can go on a winning streak that may reel in John Caulfield’s men.

“It was a really good win [against Finn Harps] with four goals and another clean sheet which was important,” Long said this week ahead of Saturday’s trip to Longford.

“We needed a professional performance because it’s never easy making that trip, and everybody did their jobs and we got the win.

“Ronan was on the scoresheet again, Connor [Parsons] is in good form and an excellent Dean McMenamy goal too so we’re very happy.

“Longford will prove a difficult challenge too. They had a good win last weekend and we know we’re in for a tough game.

“There wasn’t much between the teams earlier in the season and we’re expecting more of the same on Saturday night.”

Ronan Coughlan is suspended however, while Darragh Power is injured.

Referee: Declan Toland.

PREDICTION

Longford Town 1-1 Waterford

Longford Town

Injured: Oisin Hand, Cristian Magerusan, Aaron Walsh, James Doona, Francis Campbell.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.

Waterford

Injured: Darragh Power.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: Ronan Coughlan.