Waterford United -v- Athlone Town

• Brendan White
• Tue, May 04 2010


Waterford United welcome Athlone Town to the RSC this Friday evening looking to bounce back from their second league defeat of the season. (kick off 7.45pm)

Waterford United lost out to Longford Town on Saturday taking the lead through George O’Callaghan, before conceding two second half goals.

Waterford went into the game without the injured centre half duo of Kevin Murray and Seamus Long, and also lost John Hayes midway through the first half to leave Stephen Henderson with major defensive problems ahead of Athlone’s visit.

Josh Byrne, Kevin Murray and Seamus Long are all out. The extent of John Hayes injury is still unknown and may recover in time. Kevin Waters, who has been out for 4 weeks, warmed up with the team last week and is expected to be fit.

Athlone Town were on the wrong end of a 2-1 score line against Wexford Youths and on Saturday night.

Austin Skelly is definitely out for up to 4 weeks with a torn groin for Athlone Town, while Stephen Caffrey is still suffering severe back pain despite playing on Friday night. Robbie Farrell, who was involved in a clash of heads against Wexford Youths, is suffering dizzy spells and severe swelling to the affected area. Both sat out a light training session that took place on Sunday evening and they will both undergo treatment right up until kick off on Tuesday night in an effort to play.

Des Hope returns after sitting out Friday nights defeat to Wexford due to suspension while Ireland’s goalscoring hero Robbie Benson and Tom O’Halloran return to the squad after being part of the Irish Under 18 Schools team that lifted the Centenary Shield on Friday night in Burton.

Venue: RSC

Referee: Jim McKell

paddypower.com odds: Waterford United 4/11 Draw 11/4 Athlone Town 15/2

Waterford United
Doubtful: John Hayes
Injured: Kevin Murray, Seamus Long, Josh Byrne
Suspended: None

Athlone Town
Doubtful: Stephen Caffrey, Robbie Farrell
Injured: Austin Skelly
Suspended: None

Extratime.ie Prediction: Waterford to win 2-0