League Preview: Bohemians -v- Waterford

BOHEMIANS 

Bohemians host Waterford at Dalymount Park on Friday evening as they look to claw themselves away from the threat of relegation (kick-off is at 7.45pm).

The Gypsies are five points clear of ninth-placed Dundalk with two games in hand - but those fixtures are against Shelbourne and Shamrock Rovers.

But they have improved their level of performances in recent weeks - although their most recent outing saw them draw 2-2 away to Drogheda United. 

Defender Leigh Kavanagh was dismissed in that draw and will miss out on the home clash against Waterford.

Also, it has been confirmed that boss Alan Reynolds has stepped away from his role as assistant coach with Jim Crawford’s Ireland Under-21 side this week.

"It’s been an enjoyable four years working with the Under-21s and I’m proud to have played my part in the development of some of our country’s top talents,” Reynolds said.

"I leave with fond memories and all the experience of testing ourselves against top international opposition can only be a benefit for myself and Bohemians going forward.

"I wish Jim, the players and the staff all the best for the rest of the campaign and beyond."

WATERFORD 

With the news that midfielder Romeo Akachukwu has left the club for Premier League side Southampton this week, the Blues head to Dublin for a crunch clash against Bohemians.

Keith Long’s side fell to a narrow 2-1 loss at home to Shamrock Rovers last Friday and have now lost their last three games in a row.

Waterford have also slipped back to fourth in the table and are at risk of falling further back in the race for European qualification.

To compound their misery, winger Maleace Asamoah has left the club following his loan stint at the RSC.

Sam Sargeant is expected to remain out though injury.

Referee: Damien MacGraith. 

PREDICTION 

Bohemians 2-1 Waterford 

Bohemians 

Injured: Robert Cornwall, Keith Buckley, James McManus, James Carroll. 

Doubtful: None.

Suspended:Leigh Kavanagh.

Waterford

Injured: Sam Sargeant. 

Doubtful:N/A.

Suspended: N/A.