First Division round-up: Athlone Town secure play-off spot as Treaty United miss out

Athlone Town have sealed their place in the First Division play-offs with a fifth-placed league finish.

The Blue and Black of the Midlands played out a scoreless draw against local rivals Longford Town on Friday night.

And while a draw left the door slightly open for Treaty United to sneak in at their expense, Athlone sailed through.

Treaty United were beaten 2-0 away to Waterford on the same night meaning that a draw was enough for Dario Castelo’s side.

And they will now face the aforementioned Blues in the play-offs which start next week.

90+4' | WEVE DONE IT!!

0-0 #CmonTheTown | #SupportLocal
pic.twitter.com/zUnBiFLL0N

— Athlone Town AFC (@AthloneTownAFC) October 20, 2023

But they will be aware that they must improve if they are to defeat Waterford over two legs.

Longford Town had chances to beat Athlone on Friday night with Ola Adeyemo, Viktor Serdeniuk and Cristian Magerusan all going close for Stephen Henderson’s side.

However, the result was academic with Athlone safely securing their place in the top-five in front of over 1,400 supporters.

At the RSC, goals from Ryan Burke and Dean McMenamy secured Waterford’s win.

Big week ahead starting this Tuesday in Athlone as we face Athlone Town in the Play Off semi final 1st leg.

Tickets will be available on the gate on Tuesday for the away leg - further details to follow #WaterfordFCpic.twitter.com/t7tRCwJSKS

— Waterford FC (@WaterfordFCie) October 20, 2023

Elsewhere in the play-off chase, Bray Wanderers were held to a 1-1 draw at home to Finn Harps. 

The Seagulls had to win and overturn an eight-goal scoring difference deficit to have any hope of reaching a play-off - but it was not to be.

Matthew Makinson gave Harps a first-half lead before a second-half penalty from Chris Lyons salvaged a point for Ian Ryan’s side.

We spoke to Head Coach Ian Ryan after tonight’s draw with Finn Harps. He explained the player pathway is important as Billy O’Neill became the clubs youngest ever first team player. pic.twitter.com/EdnkTbnwOB

— Bray Wanderers FC (@BrayWanderers) October 20, 2023

Meanwhile, champions Galway United claimed a 2-0 victory over Wexford. Rob Slevin and Wassim Aouachria both scored for the Tribesmen.

Their win means they have completed the league campaign with a 100% winning record at home. They have also finished on 94 points, which is 25 clear of closest challengers Waterford.

The moment we lifted the SSE Airtricity Men's First Division trophy...

A record breaking season comes to and end, thank your brilliant for you support 🇱🇻#ItsATribalThing | Thanks to Brian and Luke Comer pic.twitter.com/ESRtwLmK8Q

— Gaillimh Aontaithe (@GalwayUnitedFC) October 20, 2023

And at St Colman’s Park, Cobh Ramblers were held to a 1-1 draw by Kerry. 

Alec Byrne gave the Rams a first-half lead before Kennedy Amechi levelled late on for the Kingdom.