Bray Wanderers -v- Drogheda United

BRAY WANDERERS

Pat Devlin’s side could put an almost insurmountable gap between themselves and bottom side Dundalk by doing something they have failed to do this season and beat Drogheda United. 

The loss to UCD on Friday night was a blow to the Wicklow team who really could have solidified their place in the Premier Division, however that defeat came on the back of a win at St Pats and a 0-0 draw at home to Derry.

That 0-0 draw with Derry marked their fourth league draw on the bounce, three of which aped that scoreline. 

Devlin will have to plan without Dave Webster and Jason Byrne, both of whom are suspended. The loss of Byrne has really affected Bray’s striking capability, however Kieran Marty Watters has been proving to be a good replacement. 

Devlin underlined the importance of his rearguard in the build up to this game, he said that he had his team practicing their shooting after missing so many chances last week, but highlighted that if they can keep a clean sheet then they have a chance. 

DROGHEDA UNITED

Wins against Wexford Youths and a come-back victory over Dundalk have put the vibrancy back into Drogheda United, according to manager Mick Cooke. 

His team went through what he calls a hiccup, but putting back-to-back wins together have really re-invigorated the Boynesiders and Cooke will be travelling to Bray full of confidence. 

However, that confidence is not to be confused with under-estimation as the Drogheda boss believes that there are no easy games left. 

“No games from here on in are going to be easy, we've never had an easy game in Bray and Friday night will be no exception, but we need to keep winning and that's all we can focus on doing.”

Drogheda will be without the influential Gavin Brennan, his absence really told on Friday night against Dundalk and he will serve the final game of his suspension. Alan McNallly is also suspended while John Sullivan, who scored the winner last week, will be a doubt. 

Drogheda are still looking to keep pace with Sligo Rovers, but more importantly, they will want to stay ahead of the chasing pack which is why three points will be vital for Cooke and co. 

Referee: Rob Rogers.

MATCH STATS

Bray have only won twice at home this season, Drogheda have won six times away from home.

Drogheda have only failed to score once in their last 10 games, Bray have failed to score four times in the same period.

Drogheda have won both meetings between these teams so far this season.

BETTING

Bray Wanderers 19/10, Draw 23/10, Drogheda United 13/10,

PREDICTION

2-0 to Drogheda.

Bray Wanderers Injury News: None.

Bray Wanderers Suspension News: Dave Webster, Jason Byrne.

Drogheda United Injury News: John Sullivan (doubt).

Drogheda United Suspension News: Alan McNally, Gavin Brennan.