League Preview: Athlone Town -v- Bray Wanderers

• Andrew Dempsey
• Fri, Aug 23 2024




ATHLONE TOWN

Athlone Town host promotion play-off rivals Bray Wanderers at Lissywollen on Friday night (kick-off is at 7.45pm).

The Co Westmeath side are in fine form and even reached the quarter-finals of the FAI Cup last weekend with a shock 3-2 triumph over Waterford.

But Dario Castelo’s side had to wait until extra-time to win against the ten-man Blues after Darragh Leahy was controversially sent-off.

And they will now face Drogheda United in the last-eight of the competition.

In terms of team news for Athlone’s home tie against Bray, goalkeeper Enda Minogue is likely to remain out again.

BRAY WANDERERS 

Bray Wanderers will be keen to get back to winning ways when they travel to Westmeath in a mouth-watering clash against Athlone.

The Seagulls were defeated by UCD in their last outing a fortnight ago, losing 1-0 at the Carlisle Grounds. 

But they remain in a strong position to claim a play-off spot with 38 points on the board after 27 games. 

Sixth-placed Cobh Ramblers are three points behind them, with Finn Harps one further behind. Treaty United are on 32 points.

Shane Griffin, Cristian Magerusan and Jamie Duggan are doubts for Bray against Athlone. Evan Osam will miss out through injury.

Referee: Glen Geraghty. 

 

PREDICTION 

Athlone Town 1-0 Bray Wanderers

 

Athlone Town

Injured: Enda Minogue. 

Doubtful: N/A.

Suspended: None. 

 

Bray Wanderers

Injured: Evan Osam. 

Doubtful: Cristian Magerusan, Jamie Duggan, Shane Griffin.

Suspended: None.