League Preview: Limerick -v- Drogheda United

• Tom Clancy
• Fri, Mar 28 2014




LIMERICK FC

Despite being placed 11^th after three rounds of fixtures, there will be renewed optimism for Limerick having taken a point at Richmond Park last Saturday. A first Premier Division goal for teenager James McGrath gave Limerick their second draw from three games, while stifling a much fancied St. Patrick’s Athletic outfit.
 

Last season, Limerick enjoyed little success against the Louth Club, drawing 2-2 in March before losing both home and away in the second and third rounds. Former Drogheda United player, Stuart Taylor will be hoping his side can continue a home run that has seen them keep five consecutive clean sheets, winning three and drawing twice.


Tactically, Limerick have been similar to last season, attempting to implement a passing game which, at times, hasn’t won over the entire home support. Chances have been hard to come by, with Rory Gaffney often isolated in attack as the Blues have looked to keep it tight.


At the back, Sam Oji will be key once again. The Englishman has been impressive since signing late in July and deservedly picked up the Man of the Match award in Inchicore.


Taylor looks set to be without Shane Costelloe (back) and Robbie Williams, with Colm Murphy or Patrick Nzuzi set to be called in at left-back. Longer term absentee Danny Galbraith remains side-lined, while Craig Curran (hip) is nearing a return.


The side has had to rely on youth, even at this early stage, with the subs bench filled with players with limited Premier Division experience in each game so far.

 

DROGHEDA UNITED

The Louth have had a somewhat impressive start to the season, in which man fancied them to struggle after parting ways with manager Mick Cooke. A draw from behind at Bohemians was sandwiched between a win in the Louth derby and a point at home to Roddy Collins’ Derry City.
 


Manager Robbie Horgan recognises the importance of beating Limerick, “The draws we’ve had this season have been good results but nothing beats a victory and the three points that go with it”. Horgan also stated “we will be set-up with an attacking mind-set. I watched Limerick at the weekend and they played with a very defensive system.”
 

Drogheda have won just one away League game on their travels since last May, but with Gavin Brennan and Declan O’Brien returning to the side, the Boynesiders will be looking to improve that statistic.
 

Drogs will be without Michéal Schlingerman and Phillip Hughes (suspension) while Paul Crowley is a doubt following a scan during the week, as is Michael Daly, who has started each of the League three games so far.
 

Expect an open game, with Limerick looking for their first home win of the season, while Drogheda will be buoyed by the form of Gary O’Neill and the return to the squad of Declan O’Brien.
 

Referee: Graham Kelly (Cork)

 

 

MATCH STATS

Limerick are on a five game unbeaten run at home, keeping five clean sheets during that run.

 

Dave Ryan looks set to face his brother Barry, while having spent time as his under-study whilst at Limerick.

 

The average age of the Limerick substitutes was approximately 19.5 years against St. Pats. 

 

BETTING

Limerick 11/8 Draw 9/4, Drogheda United 2/1 (Bet365.com)

 

PREDICTION

Although the home side will look to continue their decent home form, expect Drogheda to be a stern test.

Limerick 1-1 Drogheda United.

 

 

Limerick FC

Injured: Craig Curran, Danny Galbraith, Robbie Williams

Doubtful: Shane Costelloe

Suspended: None.

 

Drogheda United

Injured: Michael Schlingermann

Doubtful: Paul Crowley, Michael Daly.

Suspended: Phillip Hughes.