Limerick 37 vs Waterford United

Limerick welcome their Munster rivals to Jackman Park on Friday in what is an extremely important game for Gareth Cronin’s side. (Kick-off 7:45pm) Third placed Waterford are still in serious contention for a quick return to the Premier Division.

Waterford United face a very different Limerick side than in the sides previous three meetings this season. Limerick will be looking for revenge over their Munster rivals on Friday night as Gareth Cronin’s side have maximum points against Limerick so far this season.

Mike Kerley’s young side have cemented their name on fifth spot but they have ambitions of a strong finish to the season, something previous Limerick teams have failed to do, but the visitors will definitely have the greater need for the three points as they look to close the gap on League leaders Shelbourne and second placed Dundalk.

Both sides come into Friday’s game in good form. Despite Waterford’s defeat to title rivals Sporting Fingal at Morton Stadium last weekend, they had previously gone on a six game unbeaten run and Gareth Cronin is confident his side will bounce back on Friday night in Limerick “ We will go to Limerick and grind a result out there, I will make sure of that”

Limerick will also be full of confidence after coming from behind to win 2-1 against a resilient Longford Town at Flancare Park last Saturday. Their unbeaten run now extends to five games. Gareth Cronin will have to do without the influential Dave Warren who is suspended after receiving his fourth yellow card of the season. Waterford have no new injuries to worry about but long term injury worry Michael Foley remains out with an ankle injury.

Meanwhile, Mike Kerley has a full squad to choose from with no injury or suspension worries to deal with.

Extratime prediction: There is no doubt that this will be a very close game. Waterford will be nervous and cautious at the beginning of the game. With so much at stake for Gareth Cronin’s side this Munster derby will no doubt provide end to end entertaining football. A score draw of 1-1 is the most likely outcome.