Credit:
Dundalk -v- Bohemians
- David Jackson
- Thu, Mar 17 2011
Dundalk host Bohemians on Friday night at Oriel Park as they look to build on their last gasp win at the same venue last week. (Kick off 7.45pm)
It has been a mixed bag for Dundalk so far, winning last weekend by the odd goal in five after going down 3-1 to Shamrock Rovers on the opening night of the season.
After a difficult pre season Bohemians have started the season brightly and have claimed maximum points from their opening two fixtures. They come into this game with a much changed squad from last year but in a familiar position at the top of the table.
Dundalk go into the game slightly depleted with the trio of Ross Gaynor, Greg Bolger and Michael Hector unavailable through suspension. All three have carried over suspensions from the end of the last campaign. Manager Ian Foster will be left to wait for news on Dean Bennett and left-back Eoghan Osborne as both will both undergo fitness tests before Friday’s game.
Foster has re-iterated the need for his side to learn from the mistakes of their opening home fixture. “Some of the fundamental things of the game let us down. We have all watched the video together, and we’re trying to put things right on the training ground to address the simple things that are causing us one or two problems,” Foster said.
In the opposing dug out Pat Fenlon knows all too well of the threat posed by Dundalk front two, former Bohs players Mark Quigley and Jason Byrne.
“We know how good the two boys are. I’d rather have them than be playing against them to be fair! We know that if Jason gets chances he normally takes them. Mark is probably going to be dropping off, playing in that area where he’s difficult to mark, but we’ll be ready for that”.
Fenlon will have to plan without Glenn Cronin and Chris O’Connor who are long term absentees. Robert Bayly and Ger O’ Brien are also unavailable through suspension.
Despite the absentees tomorrow night’s fixture is one which Fenlon always looks forward to. “I enjoy going there though, it’s a good football town, good football people. There’s always a good atmosphere up there so were looking forward to it”.
Dundalk FC
Injured: None
Doubtful: Dean Bennett, Eoghan Osborne (both hamstring)
Suspended: Greg Bolger, Michael Hector, Ross Gaynor
Bohemians FC
Injured: Chris O’Connor (shoulder), Glenn Cronin (knee)
Doubtful: None
Suspended: Robert Bayly, Ger O’Brien
Referee: Damien Hancock
Paddy Power Odds: Dundalk 11/10 - Draw 11/5 – Bohemians 23/10
Extratime prediction: An entertaining 2-2 draw.
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