League Preview: Finn Harps -v- Kerry

FINN HARPS 

Finn Harps boss Darren Murphy is expecting a difficult game as Kerry visit Finn Park this evening (kick-off is at 7.45pm). 

The Co Donegal men have enjoyed an impressive start to the campaign, recording victories over Longford Town, Athlone Town and Wexford thus far. 

And they have also drawn against league leaders Cork City. 

But last weekend’s late 2-1 win over Wexford has given Murphy’s side some forward momentum.

“Last week against Wexford we had a bit of a slow start,” he said. 

“I know people feel we didn’t play well in that first half but I thought we did OK, but maybe didn’t create the chances we might have. 

“In the second half we definitely came out and played on the front foot. The subs made a huge impact, which they have done all season and that’s back to it being a squad game. 

“The four subs who came off the bench for us last week had a huge impact on the game and it was a fantastic win for us.

“It’s one game at a time though and we move on to Kerry now and hopefully get something from that. We expect a very difficult game. 

“They have Daniel (Okwute) and Antonio (Tuta) there now and I know everyone at Finn Park will welcome them back, but we’ll be hoping Daniel has a quiet evening, Antonio maybe the opposite!”

Kevin Jordan and Ryan Rainey remain out with injuries, while Aaron McLaughlin is a doubt.

KERRY 

Kerry are expected to be without Nathan Gleeson and Valerii Dolia this evening for their trip to Ballybofey this evening. 

But Jack Kavanagh may return after returning to training.

Although, their assistant boss James Sugrue is expecting a stiff test on the road.

“Darren Murphy is doing some great work there,” he said. “I had a good conversation with him last year, he’s a good lad. He has the team working together. 

“It’s easy to see Ballybofey is a tough place to go, the players work really hard for each other. 

“So I’ve said to our boys we have to be ready for a battle. I’ve played up there a good few times and it’s intimidating to go and if you’re not ready for that battle up there you are in for a rough night. 

“It’s the type of game that makes teams, we have to win our individual battles, second balls and if you can get a result up there it should really drive us on.”

Referee: David Dunne. 

PREDICTION 

Finn Harps 2-1 Kerry 

Finn Harps

Injured: Kevin Jordan, Ryan Rainey. 

Doubtful: Aaron McLaughlin. 

Suspended: None. 

Kerry

Injured: Valerii Dolia, Nathan Gleeson. 

Doubtful: Jack Kavanagh. 

Suspended: None.