Limerick FC -v- SD Galway

LIMERICK FC

After eighteen long games, Limerick FC have finally reached the summit of the First Division standings. To ensure they stay there, they must overcome bottom side SD Galway at Jackman Park.

Putting Waterford’s hoodoo over Limerick aside, the Blues have been in almost perfect form all year. Thirteen wins in seventeen games would almost guarantee a big point gap between Limerick and second place in any other given season, but given the way the top three sides have been performing against the lower placed teams, it’s still all to play for, and Limerick are far from safe yet.

Coming off the back of an impressive win in Mervue, Limerick look to have finally found their cruising altitude and are becoming the formidable side that all the experts expected in the first place.

The Blues will have to make do without the services of gifted young playmaker David O’Leary, but because of their strength in depth, can call on any two of Stephen Bradley, Joe Gamble or Jeffrey Judge to slot in, in his absence. Cian Collins remains absent due to an injury concern, but is expected to be back to full fitness within a fortnight. Shane Guthrie is unavailable due to suspension, so Corie Treacy is expected to slot in next to captain Paddy Purcell.

SD GALWAY

It may seem like a lost cause, but there are certain elements to factor in before writing off SD Galway in this tie. The Galway side have it all to play for as they try and overtake fierce rivals Mervue United, and steer clear of the dreaded bottom spot.

This time last year, Limerick were flying. They seemed to have gotten control of their formation, their style of play and were posing a serious threat to Cork, Shelbourne and Monaghan United. Tony Mannion’s Salthill Devon rolled into town and a late strike from Brian Geraghty put a spanner in the works. The late wonderstrike was enough to earn Devon a point on Shannonside. Although both have been little short of atrocious, SD Galway’s only win was away from home; that arrived a few weeks back in Fahy’s Field.

After a terrific point against Wexford Youths, SD felt there might just be something in their trip to the RSC for them, however they came home empty handed, and on the receiving end of a three-nil thrashing. They will look to somehow correct their mistakes and sneak something from Jackman Park.

SD Galway could be without the services of Mikey Gilmore and Colm Horgan as they look to tackle the league leaders; losses they really could have done without. The ever consistent Eugene Greaney will miss this tie also, through suspension.

Referee: Andrew Mullally.

MATCH STATS

SD Galway’s draw at Jackman Park was crucial in the end. Had Limerick hung on, they would have gotten a playoff spot ahead of Monaghan United.

In the eight competitive games between the sides, Limerick have won seven.

The aggregate score of all the tie put together, is 24-6 in favour of Limerick.

BETTING

Limerick 1/12; Draw 7/1; SD Galway 20/1.

PREDICTION

Subtlety is for the weak. 5-0.

Limerick FC Injury News: Cian Collins, David O’Leary.

Limerick FC Suspension News: Shane Guthrie.

SD Galway Injury News: Mikey Gilmore, Colm Horgan.

SD Galway Suspension News: Eugene Greaney.