FAI Cup Preview: Waterford -v- Cockhill Celtic

WATERFORD

Waterford host FAI Junior Cup champions Cockhill Celtic at the RSC on Friday night as they look to begin their FAI Cup campaign with a win (kick-off is at 7.45pm). 

The Blues were narrowly beaten by Galway United last weekend in the Premier Division but have impressed this season on their return to the top-flight.

And with them third in the table, they will be confident of securing European qualification through the league. 

But an FAI Cup win would also secure that and they will be eyeing a run to the final. 

The Blues are unlikely to be able to call on the services of Sam Sergeant, Connor Evans and Gbemi Arubi through injury.

Meanwhile, Christie Pattisson, Rowan McDonald, Kyle White and Barry Baggley are definitely out. There may be a first start for new recruit Shane Flynn who joined earlier this month.

COCKHILL CELTIC 

Cockhill Celtic know they face an uphill task if they are to claim a major FAI Cup shock against Waterford on Friday night at the RSC. 

The Co Donegal side eased past Ayrfield United 7-1 to reach this stage of the competition but they are out of season. 

And their cause will not helped having been soundly beaten by Bray Wanderers last season in the same stage, going down to a comprehensive 3-1 defeat at home. 

But they did win the FAI Junior Cup last season after seeing off Gorey Rangers 3-1 in the final. 

Former Finn Harps man Luke Rudden is likely to be their biggest attacking threat against the Blues as they seek to cause a huge upset. 

Referee: Marc Lynch. 

PREDICTION 

Waterford 4-0 Cockhill Celtic 

Waterford

Injured: Christie Pattisson, Rowan McDonald, Kyle White, Barry Baggley.

Doubtful:Sam Sergeant, Connor Evans, Gbemi Arubi.

Suspended:None. 

Cockhill Celtic

Injured: N/A.

Doubtful: N/A. 

Suspended:None. 

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