League Preview: UCD -v- Sligo Rovers
Evan Osam in action for UCD Credit: Matthew Lysaght (ETPhotos)
UCD
Basement strugglers UCD host Sligo Rovers at the Belfield Bowl on Friday as they look for just their second win of the season (kick-off is at 7.45pm).
The Students are marooned at the foot of the table – 15 points behind 9th placed Cork City.
And their only win of the season so far has come against the Leesiders – but that victory arrived over two months ago.
Since then, Andy Myler’s side have lost their last three home league games on the spin – falling to defeats against Dundalk, Shamrock Rovers and St Patrick’s Athletic.
Those home woes have been coupled with a dispiriting run of form on the road, with the Students winless on their travels.
And their cause has not been aided by the continued absence of Mark Dignam and Sam Todd. Mikey Raggett and Lennon Gill are likely to remain out.
SLIGO ROVERS
With just one win in their last seven league games, Sligo Rovers visit Dublin 4 knowing that only a win will ease the pressure valve in the North-West.
John Russell’s side have been hit with an injury crisis of sorts over the last few weeks – but they have lost five times since their last victory in the capital against St Patrick’s Athletic.
And while they have defeated Derry City since, their struggles have seen them slip back to 8th in the table.
The Bit O’Red are now also just two points ahead of 9th placed Cork City following their dismal run.
However, they have been able to welcome back Nando Pijnaker to the fold following injury. Eanna Clancy, Garry Buckley and James Finnerty are all out.
Referee: Adriano Reale.
PREDICTION
UCD 0-2 Sligo Rovers
UCD
Injured: Lennon Gill, Sam Todd, Mark Dignam, Mikey Raggett.
Doubtful: N/A.
Suspended: None.
Sligo Rovers
Injured: Garry Buckley, Eanna Clancy, James Finnerty.
Doubtful: None.
Suspended: None.
