Wexford Youths -v- Finn Harps
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Wexford Youths
Wexford welcome an in-form Finn Harps to Ferrycarrig Park this Friday evening (Kick-off 8pm) as the First Division season enters the final stretch.
The Youths will be looking to continue their recent good form having won 3 of their last 4 league outings. A comprehensive 3-0 win away to Athlone Town the last time out has left Wexford with the chance to leapfrog Friday’s opponents into fourth place.
“Last week’s win sets us up nicely, you’re going into Friday night’s game knowing that a win absolutely puts you in pole position for the fourth spot which would be a fantastic achievement for the lads – a draw and you’re still in with a shout but if you’re beaten, fourth spot has gone out the window – you’d be actually looking over shoulder again, you could find yourself in fifth or sixth position”, Manager Shane Keegan speaking in midweek.
Keegan has a full squad to choose from as the race for fourth place comes to a head.
Finn Harps
Finn Harps will be looking to extend their recent unbeaten run to ten games as the Donegal men visit the glorious east coast venue.
After a break in League action last weekend for the FAI Cup Quarter Finals, the Donegal men travel south well rested after beating Athlone Town 2-0 at Finn Park the last time out.
“We knew it was going to be a very competitive game because they came into it joint level with ourselves in fourth place,” said Harps boss Peter Hutton. “We didn’t get much off them this season but we’re delighted to get the three points and I think it was fully deserved.”
Peter Hutton has put his sides recent run of form down to having a full squad to choose from along with a dedicated group of players.
“The players have shown great attitude and commitment of late and they’re getting their reward now,” he said.
“We’ve been hampered with a lot of injuries and suspensions this season and they’ve eased up a lot recently so maybe that’s another reason for the improvement.
“We have good competition for places here now and that good run has given us something worth fighting for between now and the end of the season.”
Gary Merrit is a doubt for Harps with a groin strain, other than that Peter Hutton has a full squad for the trip.
Referee: R. Daly
Match Stats
Wexford have had the better of this season’s battles as the Youths have won two with the other game finishing after as an exciting 3-3 draw at Finn Park earlier this year
Kevin McHugh is Finn Harps leading goalscorer as the experienced frontman has found the net 10 times in the league so far this season.
Betting
Wexford Youths 6/5, Draw 23/10, Finn Harps 19/10.
Prediction
Wexford Youths 1-1 Finn Harps. Harps to extend their unbeaten run on the road.
Wexford Youths Injury News: None.
Wexford Youths Suspension News: None.
Finn Harps Injury News: Gary Merrit (Groin, doubtful.)
Finn Harps Suspension News: None.
