League Preview: Finn Harps -v- Waterford

FINN HARPS

Finn Harps host Waterford at Finn Park on Friday night as they seek to keep their slim play-off hopes alive (kick-off is at 8pm).

Harps trail fifth placed Wexford by nine points with just seven league games left to play – and they are running out of time to close the gap.

They have also failed to win any of their last five league games.

However, they did at least claim a late point against Wexford last weekend at Ferrycarrig Park.

New recruit Jamie Watson struck in injury time to level after Ryan Rainey was sent off in the 73^rd minute of the game.

And that dismissal means Rainey will miss the next three games.

WATERFORD

Knowing that a single point will officially secure their play-off spot, Waterford head to the North West with a job to do.

Keith Long’s side have lost and drawn in their last two league outings against Athlone Town and Treaty United respectively.

And while their title hopes ended a few weeks ago, their patchy form since then means Galway United are closing in on the league title sooner than anticipated.

But the Blues have been without star striker Ronan Coughlan through injury over the last few weeks.

And they will have to make do without Ireland under-19 international Romeo Akachuckwu who is currently away with the Ireland under-19s this weekend.

Referee: TBC.

PREDICTION

Finn Harps 0-2 Waterford

Finn Harps

Injured: N/A.

Doubtful: N/A.

Suspended: Ryan Rainey.

Waterford

Injured: N/A.

Doubtful: N/A.

Unavailable: Romeo Akachuckwu.

Suspended: None.