First Division Playoff Final Preview: Bray Wanderers -v- Athlone Town
- Andrew Dempsey
- Fri, Nov 01 2024
BRAY WANDERERS
Bray Wanderers can take another step towards the Premier Division on Saturday evening when they face Athlone Town in the First Division Playoff final at Dalymount Park (kick-off is at 4pm).
The Seagulls know a win would set up a date with FAI Cup finalists Drogheda United at Richmond Park on November 16th.
But they will be acutely aware they have a major task on their hands against Athlone before they can even think of that.
Bray reached the First Division playoff decider by virtue of a nail-biting 2-1 triumph over UCD over two legs in the previous round.
They won the first-leg 2-0 at the Carlisle Grounds before losing narrowly at the UCD Bowl.
Though their strong position in the tie saw them safely through.
But their progression came at a cost with Zach Nolan forced off injured during the first leg, and Kieran Cruise suffering the same fate in the second. It is unclear whether or not either player will feature in the tie against Athlone.
Paul Murphy was sent off against UCD and will be absent through suspension, as will Max Murphy who has accumulated a number of yellow cards.
ATHLONE TOWN
Athlone Town defied the odds to reach this stage of the playoff series with a 1-0 aggregate victory over Wexford.
Dean Ebbe’s first leg winner was enough to separate the two teams with James Keddy’s FAI Cup semi-finalists bowing out at the first hurdle of the playoffs again.
However, Athlone will be delighted they got over the line and know they - like Bray - are potentially only 180 minutes away from a return to the Premier Division.
Though they will have to do it the hard way with defender Noah van Geenen suspended.
The Co Westmeath side have lost three times to Bray this season, with their only victory coming in May at home against the Seagulls.
They lost their most recent clash against the Wanderers 1-0 at home with Guillermo Almirall netting on that occasion.
Referee: Marc Lynch.
PREDICTION
Bray Wanderers 2-1 Athlone Town
Bray Wanderers
Injured:N/A.
Doubtful:N/A.
Suspended:Max Murphy, Paul Murphy.
Athlone Town
Injured: N/A.
Doubtful:N/A.
Suspended:Noah van Geenen.
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