League Preview: Limerick FC -v- UCD

• Tom Clancy
• Fri, Jun 13 2014




LIMERICK FC

After crashing out of the FAI Cup at the hands of Bohemians last weekend Stuart Taylor must refocus his side ahead of the visit of UCD. Limerick will be hoping to make it three wins in-a-row in the SSE Airtricity League, with the game kicking-off at 7.45 pm.

 

While the bookies may lean towards a home win, the Super Blues have had their difficulties against UCD, with one win and one draw apiece in 2013. Earlier this season Jason Hughes was the saviour in Belfield, scoring a last-gasp equaliser in The Bowl

 

The midfielder should return to the starting XI on Friday, as should the ever impressive Prince Agyemang after both served a suspension against the Gypsies. But Taylor may have to plan without fans’ favourite Shane Tracy. The ex-Galway United man left the field on Saturday after just 25 minutes.


Limerick’s main problem has been finding the net but more noticeable is the use of a number of unproved, young talents. A threadbare squad has struggled for consistency within games, seen particularly during the erratic defeat against Bohs.


A message from the Chairman, Pat O’Sullivan was issued on Thursday, with concern growing at the dwindling crowds at Thomond Park. Matters on the pitch are crucial to those numbers increasing over the remainder of the season. 
 

UCD
While always marked as likely to be relegated, UCD have made steady, if unspectacular progress in the first round of fixtures. But they have only managed to beat Drogheda United, another side struggling for form since playing Limerick in early April.

 

Aaron Callaghan will have to plan without attacking pair Dean Clarke and Cillian Morrisson as well as Mark Langtry and Ayman Ben Mohamed. 

 

The Students will look back to their victory over Limerick at Thomond Park last season when, despite conceding an opening minute penalty, Martin Russell’s side went on to run out comprehensive 3-1 winners.


The Club have spoken of their struggle to fill the bench, but a win could push UCD level with Limerick, and as high as seventh. But with one win in 12 League games, Callaghan must do something to lift his troops who have kept one clean sheet on the road in nearly 40 games.

But UCD have, in recent years, produced performances and results when they have been enduring a terrible run, so they may target Friday night as the perfect opportunity to grow their points tally for an increasingly difficult campaign.
 

Referee: Robert Harvey

 

 

MATCH STATS

Shane Tracy and Stephen Folan have played in each of The Super Blues 15 League games.

 

Limerick have not won three consecutive League games since beating Shamrock Rovers, Dundalk and Bohemians in September last season.

 

UCD have won just two of their last twelve away League games. (W2 D4 L6)

 

 

BETTING

Limerick 7/10, Draw 13/5, UCD 4/1.

 

PREDICTION

On the fence, 1-1 

 

Limerick FC

Injured: James McGrath (knee)
Doubtful: Robbie Williams, Shane Tracy
Suspended: None


UCD

Injured: Ayman Ben Mohamed (Knee), Dean Clarke (Back), Mark Langtry (Knee), Cillian Morrison (Hamstring).
Doubtful: None.
Suspended: None