Bray Wanderers -v- Shamrock Rovers

BRAY WANDERERS

Bray Wanderers will hope to end their four game winless run when they host Shamrock Rovers at the Carlisle Ground on Friday. (Kick-Off 7.45pm)

The Seagulls go into this one with only one win from their opening seven games. That result was achieved in the middle of March when Pat Devlin’s men overcame UCD 3-2. Since then Bray have suffered defeats at Drogheda and Shelbourne with a draw away to Cork sandwiched in-between.

Bray can take solace from the fact they have managed to score in their last seven games but Devlin will be even happier with the fact his side are creating chances. Indeed Bray supporters have been cursing bad luck on more than one occasion in the early stages of this league campaign.

The hosts can take further comfort from the fact they have no new injury concerns with only Shane O’Connor and Adam Mitchell doubtful. Speaking midweek following his side’s defeat to Shels last time out, Devlin was in cautious mood.

“We are both coming into this game off the back of defeats so it should be interesting. Games between us are usually unpredictable and this is no different.”

SHAMROCK ROVERS

With the exception of the demolition they suffered to St Patrick’s Athletic, Shamrock Rovers have looked very impressive so far this year. They’ve won five and drawn one and look on course to be competing for the title once again come the business end of the season.

On the injury front, full back Kerrea Gilbert is joined by Ciaran Kilduff and Stephen O’Donnell on the side lines. Despite these absentees, the reigning champions will go into this one full of confidence and eager to keep the pressure on table-topping Sligo Rovers.

Stephen Kenny’s men did suffer a comprehensive 3-0 defeat at the hands of Derry City in the EA Sports Cup on Monday but having rested some key individuals, manager Stephen Kenny was keen to put the result behind him and concentrate on Friday night’s trip.

He said: “We need to concentrate on the game against Bray now. Pat Devlin has again managed to unearth some excellent young players and when you go to Bray you’re always in for a battle.”

Referee: Paul McLaughlin.

MATCH STATS

Rovers 2-1 win at the Carlisle last October was only their second win there in nine visits.

Rovers have managed to score in every league game this term netting 19 times. Bray have only failed to score once and have 8 league goals.

It was honours even between these two sides last year. The Seagulls won the first two fixtures with 2-1 score lines on both occasions. However Rovers would go on to win the league beating Bray 5-1 at home and 2-1 away in the process.

BETTING

Bray Wanderers 15/2; Draw 3/1; Shamrock Rovers 2/5.

PREDICTION

Shamrock Rovers, despite the injury setbacks, have a squad with enough depth to really trouble Bray. A 2-0 win for the visitors.

Bray Wanderers Injury News: None.

Bray Wanderers Suspension News: None.

Shamrock Rovers Injury News: Kerrea Gilbert, Ciaran Kilduff and Stephen O’Donnell.

Shamrock Rovers Suspension News: None.