League Preview: Athlone Town -v- Longford Town

ATHLONE TOWN

Athlone Town will be hoping that they can maintain their three-game unbeaten run against Longford Town when they meet at Lissywoolen on Friday night (kick-off is at 7.45pm).

The Co Westmeath side went eight years without a win against their nearest neighbours until last season but have hit back in recent times.

And since their win against Longford in July 2022, Athlone have drawn and won once against their closest foes.

But after an impressive start to the campaign Athlone have struggled in recent weeks, losing three of their last four games.

That run now means they are clinging on to fifth spot by the skin of their teeth, with Longford just two points behind them in the standings.

Athlone have not issued team news for Friday’s encounter.

LONGFORD TOWN

While Athlone have struggled recently, Longford have enjoyed a renaissance of sorts under new boss Stephen Henderson over the last month.

The Red and Black have picked up 10 points from their last five games and only league leaders Galway United have claimed more during that period.

They also have the best defensive record outside of the top two in the First Division, conceding 18 goals in 16 games.

However, goalscoring has been an issue with Longford scoring just 16 all season. Only League of Ireland new boys Kerry have a worse record.

But they have been boosted with the recent arrival of former Cobh Ramblers and Cork City striker Beineon O’Brien-Whitmarsh recently.

Yet, in terms of team news – Longford are without many of their key men. James Doona, Cristian Magerusan, Oisin Hand and Aaron Walsh all remain out.

First-team coach Gavin Peers is also suspended as he serves the final game of his three-match touchline ban.

Referee: Marc Lynch.

PREDICTION

Athlone Town 1-2 Longford Town

Athlone Town

Injured: N/A.

Doubtful: N/A.

Suspended: None.

Longford Town

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

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.