Scully's men to win the war of the Rovers

Bray Wanderers v Longford Town

Both of these sides had good wins last time out; Bray have risen to a midtable spot, while Longford will be hoping forlornly that their first win in 12 is a stepping stone to better things. It's two months since the Seagulls lost at home and Alan Matthews' side have yet to collect maximum points on the road. Clive Delaney and Gary McCabe are back from suspension for Wanderers, who will be without John Broderick, Colm Tresson, Mark Duggan, Derek Tyrrell, Paul Caffrey and Paul Dunphy. The manager of the 21's will be receiving a phonecall no doubt. The Town added Mark Rutherford to their wounded last weekend; he joins Ian Ryan and Daire Doyle on the physio's bench while Damien Brennan serves a ban. On the plus side new boys Colm James and Sean Kelly should be available and Kevin Doherty made an appearance against Sheffield United in midweek - Matthews may be able to afford the luxury of a substitution this week. Not really a match for betting in my opinion but Blue Square at 7/2 against Longford would seem not to have picked up on the Bray team news yet.

Previous meetings:
Longford Town 1-1 Bray Wanderers Eircom League Premier Division 2007 5 May 07 View Details
Bray Wanderers 0-2 Longford Town Eircom League Premier Division 2006 15 Sep 06 View Details Longford Town 1-0 Bray Wanderers Eircom League Premier Division 2006 27 Jun 06 View Details
Bray Wanderers 1-0 Longford Town Eircom League Premier Division 2006 16 May 06 View Details

Stan James Prices
10/11 Bray
9/4 Draw
5/2 Longford



St. Patrick's Athletic v Cork City

Cork take a 5 game unbeaten run to Inchicore, buoyed by the news that Roy O'Donovan will be staying on to bolster their title challenge. John O'Flynn limped off last week and Royboy is carrying a hangstring - City will need both of them at their peak if they are to take three points from Pats. Alan Kirby's return should help to bring some balance to the Saints sometimes complex midfield area. This is yet another 'biggest game of the season' for Damian Richardson, who is hoping to pick the Saints' side, as well as his own, this week. The prices look right to me, very little variance between the bookies.

Previous meetings:
Cork City 1-0 St Patricks Athletic Eircom League Premier Division 2007 3 May 07 View Details
St Patricks Athletic 1-0 Cork City Setanta Sports Cup 2007 2 Apr 07 View Details
Cork City 1-3 St Patricks Athletic Setanta Sports Cup 2007 12 Mar 07 View Details
St Patricks Athletic 0-1 Cork City Eircom League Premier Division 2006 6 Nov 06 View Details
Cork City 0-0 St Patricks Athletic Eircom League Premier Division 2006 4 Sep 06 View Details

Stan James Prices
5/4 Pats
2/1 Draw
2/1 Cork



Drogheda United v Waterford United

Waterford would not be relishing this fixture at the best of times, but they travel without 5 players who have all picked up suspensions. Kenny Browne, Pat Flynn, Robbie Hedderman, Shane Harte and Alan Mulcahy are the villains; although Harte and Mulcahy have been out with injury anyhow. Paul Doolin laughs in the face of injury and suspension - his club have taken their worst and risen to pole position. It's five wins and two draws from seven versus six defeats and a win from seven. Drogheda look as much a banker as you will find in any sport this weekend, but the bookies know it and at best odds of 1/3 I'll be investing elsewhere.

Previous meetings:
Waterford United 1-1 Drogheda Utd Eircom League Premier Division 2007 4 May 07 View Details
Drogheda Utd 1-0 Waterford United Eircom League Premier Division 2006 17 Nov 06 View Details
Waterford United 2-3 Drogheda Utd Eircom League Premier Division 2006 18 Aug 06 View Details
Drogheda Utd 4-0 Waterford United Eircom League Premier Division 2006 19 May 06 View Details

Stan James Prices
2/7 Drogheda
7/2 Draw
15/2 Waterford



UCD V Bohemians

UCD soiled their bibs last week with a disinterested performance at Longford. Methinks they'll be paying attention this time around. Both sides have failed to convince in front of goal, and in that respect Paul Byrne's absence is a bodyblow to the Students. Hard to see them piercing the Bohs backline, so it's all about not conceding. Conor Rafferty and Kevin Hunt are out, although Hunt has had something of a cameo role of late. Shane McFaul should be back to win the midfield battle and Pat 'the spectacular goal' McWalter may feature for the home side at some stage. I like Bohs here, and the 11/8 widely available is a betting price.

Previous meetings:
Bohemians 0-0 UCD Eircom League Premier Division 2007 4 May 07 View Details
Bohemians 0-1 UCD Eircom League Premier Division 2006 27 Oct 06 View Details
UCD 0-1 Bohemians Eircom League Premier Division 2006 29 Jul 06 View Details
Bohemians 2-1 UCD Eircom League Premier Division 2006 28 Apr 06 View Details

Stan James Prices
9/4 UCD
2/1 Draw
11/10 Bohs



Sligo Rovers v Shamrock Rovers

Tonight's live TV viewing picks up where the Rovers left off following the rambunctious FAI Cup tie at Tolka Park; since then both sides have progressed well. The hosts have seen off both Cork and Bohs at the Showgies so they are not to be taken lightly by the title challengers. Privately, it must be a worry for Pat Scully that his side are showing signs of legginess - Tadhg Purcell ran himself into the ground last Monday night along with his teammates, and they're up against full time opposition again. We may see a few changes on the Hoops side -Pat Scully picks from the same squad as last Monday. Sligo are without Rafaele Cretaro but hope to have Brian Cash available as well as returning striker John Bellew. Should be a cracker. I'm surprised by the 6/4 against Shamrock Rovers, I wonder if the bookies will be surprised when my wedge lands in front of them?

Previous meetings:
Shamrock Rovers 2-3 Sligo Rovers Ford FAI Cup 2007 16 Jun 07 View Details
Shamrock Rovers 1-0 Sligo Rovers Eircom League Premier Division 2007 4 May 07 View Details

Stan James Prices
2/1 Sligo
2/1 Draw
5/4 Shamrock Rovers



Derry City v Galway United

John Robertson is unlikely to let his players lick their wound following their European exit; it's all systems go now for a charge up the table. City are finding some cohesion again under the new boss and should have enough to see off underachieving Galway; then again it's an away match for Tony Cousins' side. Since beating Pats at Inchicore they have embarked upon a run of 6 without a win in all competitions. The Candystripes rattled Bohs' cage with some style last week -they may be without the departing Darren Kelly, Pizza is an able replacement. Galway are labouring under a heavy injury list, although new signing John Fitzgerald is in contention for a slot at the back. Derry to win, but there's better value elsewhere.

Previous meetings:
Derry City 2-1 Galway Utd Eircom League Cup 2007 8 May 07 View Details
Galway Utd 1-1 Derry City Eircom League Premier Division 2007 4 May 07 View Details

Stan James Prices
8/13 Derry
12/5 Draw
4/1 Galway

UCD the cream of this week's many punting opportunities

Galway United v Bray Wanderers

Galway United's long suffering fans again unwrap their hopes of that elusive first home win in the
league when Bray Wanderers travel to Terryland. The Seagulls have proven themselves to be nobody's mugs and may well prolong United's record. Tony Cousin's side have lost just one of their last five - you've guessed it - at home to Cork City. With just two points separating the pair at the wrong end of the table, a win for Tony Cousins' side will lift them above their opponents. Ciaran Foley is available after suspension, 'though he hasn't been commanding a regular starting slot lately. Small stakes on Bray at some of the 5/2 available is a reasonable investment. Exchange players are more likely to get a return by laying Galway at evens or thereabouts.

Previous meetings:
Bray Wanderers 0-1 Galway Utd Eircom League Premier Division 2007 27 Apr 07 View Details

Stan James Prices
Galway 6/5
Draw 11/5
Bray 15/8



Waterford United v Sligo Rovers

Gareth Cronin presided over a miserable midweek effort from his side as they recorded their fifth defeat in six games; relegation form in any man's formbook. Sligo's most recent defeat was their humbling at the altar of resurgent Derry City - no one fancies facing a side with a new boss to impress - Rovers had no luck in that draw. That belch aside, Paul Cook's squad have done well under his stewardship; good football for the most part has been matched with a decent run of results. With wins under their belt at Longford, Galway and UCD they need not fear the Blues. Cathal Lordan is available after missing the Cork game by prior agreement. Several firms make Waterford favourites - it's a view I disagree with and recommend a bet on Sligo at 15/8 or so.

Previous meetings:
Sligo Rovers 1-1 Waterford United Eircom League Premier Division 2007 28 Apr 07 View Details
Sligo Rovers 0-0 Waterford United Eircom League Premier Division 2006 14 Oct 06 View Details Waterford United 1-2 Sligo Rovers Eircom League Premier Division 2006 14 Jul 06 View Details
Sligo Rovers 3-1 Waterford United Eircom League Premier Division 2006 15 Apr 06 View Details

Stan James Prices
Waterford 7/4
Draw 9/4
Sligo 5/4

Bohemians v Derry City

A few weeks back this one would have been a home win banker; not so now. Just two points garnered from three top of the table clashes has distanced then from the title race; and City who have shown real signs of rediscovering last season's form could endanger one of the league's last remaining unbeaten home records. Sean Connor will be working hard to lift his side following last week's hurtful defeat at Drogheda - the only way is up for John Robertson and Derry City. An intriguing game, probably best watched.

Previous meetings:
Derry City 0-0 Bohemians Eircom League Premier Division 2007 27 Apr 07 View Details
Derry City 1-1 Bohemians Eircom League Premier Division 2006 6 Oct 06 View Details
Bohemians 1-2 Derry City Eircom League Premier Division 2006 7 Jul 06 View Details
Derry City 1-0 Bohemians Eircom League Premier Division 2006 7 Apr 06 View Details

Stan James Prices
Bohs 11/10
Draw 2/1
Derry 9/4


Longford Town v UCD

Goalfest fetishists will be circumnavigating Flancare Park this weekend, although this pair shook the football world by sharing 4 goals at Belfield earlier in the campaign. UCD, for whom Paul Crowley returns from suspension, proved their ability before a television audience last Monday. Can they bring the same level of commitment and skill to bear in less salubrious surroundings? Goals were a problem for the Students, but the leaky Longford rearguard - 11 conceded in four consecutive losses - will not provide as tough a challenge as the Rovers edition. Powers and 365 go 7/5 a UCD victory - it's value, and the bet of the week.

Previous meetings:
UCD 2-2 Longford Town Eircom League Premier Division 2007 27 Apr 07 View Details
UCD 3-1 Longford Town Eircom League Premier Division 2006 10 Nov 06 View Details
Longford Town 0-0 UCD Eircom League Premier Division 2006 12 Aug 06 View Details
UCD 2-2 Longford Town Eircom League Premier Division 2006 4 Jul 06 View Details

Stan James Prices
Longford 9/4
Draw 2/1
UCD 11/10


Cork City v Drogheda United

Cork City kick started a serious league challenge with a midweek win over Waterford United; now the potential champions elect are at the Cross. The Drogs have ridden out the worst of their injury crisis and sit deservedly at the top of the pile - no slur intended. City are unbeaten at home, but don't score too many in front of their own fans; United have been beaten just once on their travels, that was at Richmond Park. There should be a real bite about this, but a draw will do Paul Doolin's side, and such a result is well within their capabilities. Both sides come into the game on the back of consecutive victories. Joe Gamble returns from suspension to bolster the City midfield. Take the best price on the draw if you must have a bet.

Previous meetings:
Drogheda Utd 2-2 Cork City Eircom League Premier Division 2007 27 Apr 07 View Details
Drogheda Utd 0-0 Cork City Eircom League Premier Division 2006 8 Sep 06 View Details
Cork City 1-0 Drogheda Utd Eircom League Premier Division 2006 23 Jun 06 View Details
Drogheda Utd 0-0 Cork City Setanta Sports Cup 2006 22 Apr 06 View Details
Drogheda Utd 0-2 Cork City Setanta Sports Cup 2006 27 Mar 06 View Details

Stan James Prices
Cork 11/8
Draw 2/1
Drogheda 7/4


Shamrock Rovers v St. Patrick's Athletic

Rovers have won six and drawn two of their last eight; and this while experiencing their worst injury list of the season. A recently bolstered Saints squad provide yet another litmus test of Pat Scully's belief in his charges. Pats unburdened themselves with a league win last week following some sloppy point- dropping experiences. Mean as the Rovers defence is, the 2/1 on offer against a Saints win in places is too big and should be taken.

Previous meetings:
St Patricks Athletic 2-1 Shamrock Rovers Eircom League Premier Division 2007 27 Apr 07 View Details Shamrock Rovers 0-2 St Patricks Athletic FAI Cup 2006 27 Oct 06 View Details
St Patricks Athletic 0-2 Shamrock Rovers League Cup 2006 2 May 06 View Details

Stan James Prices
Rovers 13/8
Draw 2/1
Pats 6/4

Let loose the Drogs

Derry City v Sligo Rovers

John Robertson was forced to intervene in Derry's fortunes earlier than planned when he felt he could take no more at Cobh - expect an improved effort from the Candystripes here. Robbo's intervention did the trick, but four draws followed by two defeats in their last six league outings; aligned to the miserable haul of four goals at the Randywell this season, and a posse of disaffected footballers does not bode well for the home side. The return of Ciaran Martyn and the capture of Sammy Morrow should lift morale. Sligo have been flying of late and Paul Cook's side have recently tasted victory against Bohs, Rovers, UCD and Longford Town. Chris Turner is definitely out for the visitors. It's a bit early to be trusting Derry at odds-on, I'll pass here.

Previous meetings:
Sligo Rovers 0-2 Derry City Eircom League Premier Division 2007 17 Mar 07 View Details
Derry City 5-0 Sligo Rovers FAI Cup 2006 31 Oct 06 View Details
Sligo Rovers 0-0 Derry City FAI Cup 2006 29 Oct 06 View Details
Derry City 4-0 Sligo Rovers Eircom League Premier Division 2006 17 Oct 06 View Details
Sligo Rovers 3-1 Derry City Eircom League Premier Division 2006 26 Jun 06 View Details

Stan James Prices
Derry 10/11
Draw 2/1
Sligo 3/1



Longford Town v Shamrock Rovers

The last week has seen the door swing open on many occasions at Tolka Park. John Martin is unavailable to Pat Scully by prior arrangement. Alan Reynolds is, although a lack of match fitness may curtail his involvement; Derek Tyrrell is in the squad but none of the current injured crop have recovered sufficiently to merit involvement. Padraig Amond and John McGuinness are recalled from their respective loan spells. Stephen O'Brien should continue in goal. Longford's limited squad means that Alan Matthews' side practically picks itself. With one of the division's meanest defences taking on the division's meanest forward line it's safe to say a home win is unlikely. Coral offer a tempting Even Money against the Rovers win, the unsettled line up makes it not quite tempting enough however.

Previous meetings:
Shamrock Rovers 2-0 Longford Town Eircom League Premier Division 2007 16 Mar 07 View Details

Stan James Prices
Longford 5/2
Draw 9/4
Rovers 10/11



UCD v Drogheda United

The Students have faced a fairly generous run of fixtures recently; only the Sligo fixture was a tester for them. They face a Drogheda side coming off the back of what Bray boss Eddie Gormley described as the 'best performance by a League of Ireland side I have ever seen.' That was following a 4-1 caning at the hands of the Drogs. The usual injury list applies with the visitors; a positive spin on same suggests that Doolo has accidentally come upon a perfect striking blend between Ristila and Zayed. No one has picked up more points on their away days than the Setanta Cup holders. Pete Mahon will be delighted to hear that this will be a tough examination for the Students. Corals 6/5 Drogs is too big to ignore, El Punters bet of the week.

Previous meetings:
Drogheda Utd 3-2 UCD Eircom League Premier Division 2007 16 Mar 07 View Details
Drogheda Utd 1-0 UCD Eircom League Premier Division 2006 14 Oct 06 View Details
UCD 0-0 Drogheda Utd Eircom League Premier Division 2006 16 Jul 06 View Details
Drogheda Utd 1-0 UCD Eircom League Premier Division 2006 14 Apr 06 View Details

Stan James Prices
UCD 5/2
Draw 9/4
Drogheda 10/11



Waterford United v St. Patrick's Athletic

Well, which Waterford side are we going to see this week - the soluble outfit that dissolved in Bray last week, or the heroic performers of Dalymount Park? Gareth Cronin's side will be need to be at their best to contain a Pats eleven which is back to winning form after two consecutive league reversals. But four games without a win suggests they have a mountain to climb against the table-toppers. No reason to think Pats won't win this, plenty of 8/11 about but wouldn't bother backing the single.

Previous meetings:
St Patricks Athletic 3-0 Waterford United Eircom League Premier Division 2007 16 Mar 07 View Details St Patricks Athletic 0-1 Waterford United Eircom League Premier Division 2006 1 Sep 06 View Details Waterford United 1-3 St Patricks Athletic Eircom League Premier Division 2006 2 Jun 06 View Details St Patricks Athletic 0-0 Waterford United Eircom League Premier Division 2006 10 Mar 06 View Details

Stan James Prices
Waterford 7/2
Draw 12/5
Pats 4/6



Bohemians v Bray Wanderers

Sean Connor's side have conceded just twice at Dalymount this season and are protecting one of only two unbeaten home records. The visitors have lost five of their seven away fixtures, but are boosted by last week's victory over fellow strugglers Waterford. The TV cameras usually lift a team's performance level - Bohs v Waterford exemplifies this. The Seagulls took a point from Richmond Park recently and have already defeated the Gypsy's in league action this term. I think Bohs might struggle a bit here and I'd be much more comfortable laying than backing at 4/7.

Previous meetings:
Bohemians 3-1 Bray Wanderers Eircom League Cup 2007 17 Apr 07 View Details
Bray Wanderers 1-0 Bohemians Eircom League Premier Division 2007 16 Mar 07 View Details Bohemians 1-1 Bray Wanderers Eircom League Premier Division 2006 10 Nov 06 View Details
Bray Wanderers 0-3 Bohemians Eircom League Premier Division 2006 11 Aug 06 View Details Bohemians 3-0 Bray Wanderers Eircom League Premier Division 2006 12 May 06 View Details

Stan James Prices
Bohemians 4/7
Draw 12/5
Bray 9/2