Athlone Town -v- Cork City FORAS Co-op

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Athlone will play their third Airtricity First Division match of the season Saturday when they face Cork City FORAS Co-op (kick- off 7.30pm).

Athlone began their season well with an away win against Salthill Devon and a home win against Mervue United while The Leesiders have only managed to take one point from their opening two fixtures.

Place will be missing some experienced players ahead of the match, with David Bracken still doubtful and both Noel McGee and Stephen Caffery suspended. But welcome back Robbie Benson and Tom O’Halloran who both played for the Irish Schools team midweek. Confidence is high within the Athlone squad and they’ll be looking to take their first big scalp of the season at Cork’s expense.

Cork will be without the suspended Greg O’Halloran will after his sending off last week, while Davin O’Neill is doubtful with a hamstring injury, but Dunne hopes that he will be available. New signing Gearoid Morrissey is recovering from a back injury, and wont travel. Cork who are still finding their feet are looking to get points on the board but shouldn’t underestimate a confident Athlone team.

Athlone haven’t played Cork in recent times but a win for Athlone would show them to be challengers as Cork look for promotion from the Airtricity First Division on the first time of asking.

Venue: Athlone Town Stadium, Athlone
Referee: R. Rogers
Paddypower.com Odds: Athlone 9/5, Draw 12/5, Cork City 6/5

Athlone
Injured: David Bracken
Doubtful: none
Suspended: Noel McGee, Stephen Caffery

Cork City
Injured: Gearoid Morrissey
Doubtful: none
Suspended: Greg O’Halloran
extratime.ie Prediction: 1-1 Athlone to hold the Leesiders