Mervue United -v- Limerick FC

MERVUE UNITED

Much was expected of Mervue United this season. Alas, two defeats in their opening two games has people questioning their credentials. Playing questionably the second best side at home in the season opener, followed by the dreaded trek to Ballybofey, was never an ideal start for United; especially when their third game is against Limerick. The positives must be looked at, however.

Keeping a very attack minded Longford side to nil for such a long period in the opening game highlights their defensive ability; an ability that never really shone in their second game as they shipped four goals to Harps. An attacking prowess was displayed in their second game as they scored three times in Finn Park. It would be appear to be all about finding the balance between the two and seeing if that balance can be displayed on a more regular basis.

Mervue’s preparations have been somewhat sabotaged by injuries and suspensions alike for this one. Martin Conneely, Mark Ludden and Damien O’Rourke are set to miss out with their respective injuries while James Casserly is suspended following his red card last week. Daniel Tully and Philip Keegan are both away with college while Brian O’Donoghue is currently away in the UK.

LIMERICK FC

Now that the Limerick public have had their narrow minded views of an easy ride to the First Division trophy extinguished by their great Munster rivals Waterford United, the mentality is now changed to a realistic expectancy rather than a presumptuous guarantee. Limerick will need to take this Division one game at a time and will, in fact, need to work as a team in order to make their return to the Premier Division.

The opening day win against Finn Harps left something to be desired for the home fans, but the style of play was brushed off given the result. The second game away to Waterford left the Blues fans questioning whether or not the team chemistry is there. An attacking style was the order of the day for Limerick in the RSC but, with Denis Behan left up front by himself, the away side depended an awful lot on runners from midfield. The introduction of Dominic Foley brought hope to the travelling Limerick fans while the return of Garry Sheahan was probably the only positive on the night from a Limerick perspective.

Stephen Bradley picked up a knock just before half time in the RSC but should see himself among the starting line-up in Fahy’s Field. Garbhan Coughlan looks set to be available after being ruled out of the opening two games while Dave Ryan has returned to full fitness. A full strength squad is available for Pat Scully to choose from for this vital clash. A win is the minimum requirement for the away side here following last week’s humiliation.

Referee: Kevin O’Regan. 

MATCH STATS

Limerick have played twice in Fahy’s Field previously. They have won both games two nil.

Terryland Park produced better results for Mervue in their games against Limerick. In the three games, Mervue have won one, lost one and drawn one.

Having spent his entire footballing career at Mervue United, Rory Gaffney signed for Limerick in July of last season having impressed against them during the year.

BETTING

Mervue United 15/2; Draw 3/1; Limerick 1/3.

PREDICTION

Mervue 0-1 Limerick.

Mervue United Injury News: Martin Conneely (groin), Marc Ludden (broken hand), Damien O'Rourke (achilles), Daniel Tully and Philip Keegan (college) and Brian O'Donoghue (work in UK). 

Mervue United Suspension News: James Casserly.

Limerick FC Injury News: None.
Limerick FC Suspension News: None.