League Preview: Athlone Town -v- Kerry

None

ATHLONE TOWN

Athlone Town welcome Kerry to the Athlone Town Stadium on Friday evening (kick-off is at 7.45pm).

The Co Westmeath lost against the Kingdom last season at Lissywollen, which is the South-West club’s only win as a senior League of Ireland club to date.

But Athlone recovered from that setback to reach the First Division play-offs. 

Since then, Dario Castelo’s side have endured a patchy start to the 2024 season.

Athlone claimed a 3-0 victory on the opening night against Wexford, before drawing against Cobh Ramblers a week later.

But they slumped to a 2-0 loss away to Finn Harps last weekend.

In terms of team news, Athlone will once again be without Jamar Campion-Hinds through injury. 

KERRY

Kerry boss Conor McCarthy admits his side are looking forward to their trip to Athlone Town on Friday. 



The Kingdom head into the clash at the Co Westmeath venue following a resounding 4-1 win over Treaty United in the Munster Senior Cup semi-final on Monday night.

And they have been boosted with the return of Ronan Teahan and Andy Spain from injury.

Jack Kavanagh is also close to a return following a hamstring complaint.

Nathan Gleeson is available following a one-match suspension while Valerii Dolia remains out. 

“We are looking forward to it,” McCarthy said. “I think at the moment the way the group is, the atmosphere around it and we are always excited to play matches. 

“As a management team, we are excited to see the boys play because they are playing very well. The performances are good and hopefully, the results will turn as well.”



Referee: Ian O’Keefe.

 

PREDICTION

Athlone Town 2-0 Kerry

 

Athlone Town 

Injured: Jamar Campion-Hinds. 

Doubtful: None. 

Suspended: None.

 

Kerry

Injured: Valerii Dolia.

Doubtful: Jack Kavanagh.

Suspended: None.

About Andrew Dempsey

View Full Profile