Series 35 Preview

Bohemians v Longford Town

Sean Connor now has to raise the morale of his side following last week's non-performance in the FAI Ford Cup semi-final clash with Cork City. Ironically, they face City's opponents in the decider, and both sides will be fully focussed on collecting three points. The Gypsys must win their remaining games and hope that the Saints slip up in order to secure UEFA Cup football next term. Longford's targets are less salubrious; they face the same imperative as their hosts, but are targeting second last spot as opposed to second. Alan Matthews' squad will be enhanced by the return of his cup-tied duo of Colm James and Sean Kelly; However Ian Ryan is suspended. The hosts boast a full complement, save for the long term absentee Thomas Heary on what will be an emotional evening for Feargal Harkin - the Bohs favourite makes his final appearance at Dalymount Park after 10 years with the Phibsboro club.

Previous meetings:
Longford Town 3-0 Bohemians Eircom League Premier Division 2007 4 Aug 07 ->>
Bohemians 5-0 Longford Town Eircom League Premier Division 2007 11 May 07 ->>
Longford Town 3-0 Bohemians Eircom League Premier Division 2006 4 Nov 06 ->>
Bohemians 0-1 Longford Town Eircom League Premier Division 2006 4 Aug 06 ->>
Longford Town 3-1 Bohemians Eircom League Premier Division 2006 6 May 06 ->>

Stan James Prices
Bohs 4/7
Draw 12/5
Longford 9/2

Bohemians:WWWWW
Longford:LLDWW
Referee Alan Kelly


Derry City v Shamrock Rovers

Derry's long list of absentees is challenged ably by Rovers, who will field without Ger Rowe, Eric McGill, Alan Reynolds, Paul Shiels, John Martin, Padraig Amond and Aidan Price. Neither side have acquitted themselves well in recent outings - the Candystripes have collected just two of the last twenty-one points on offer, while the Hoops managed to stop a run of four consecutive defeats last week. With Buzzer Rowe suspended and Tadhg Purcell struggling with a groin problem their run of five games without a goal may well be stretched here, although Pat Scully's side still harbour fading hopes of an Intertoto spot. A must win game for the visitors; another must get it out of the way game for City.

Previous meetings:
Shamrock Rovers 1-1 Derry City Eircom League Premier Division 2007 4 Aug 07 ->>
Derry City 1-0 Shamrock Rovers Eircom League Premier Division 2007 14 May 07 ->>

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

Derry:LDDLL
Rovers:LLLLD
Referee Damien Hancock

Drogheda United v Bray Wanderers

There's unfinished business to be completed at both ends of the table in United Park on Friday; never before has a Drogheda United captain raised the Premier Division trophy aloft ( never before for that matter, has any captain raised this trophy aloft, as it's a new one!) and that historical event will take place alongside Bray's attempt to swerve a relegation play-off. The Seagulls are but two points better off than eleventh-placed Waterford United but at least have their destiny in their own hands. The sore heads should be in better shape by now and Paul Doolin will be demanding a win to mark the occasion. Paul Caffrey and Mark Duggan are non-runners for the visitors while Ray Kenny is suspended; Clive Delaney, Stephen Fox and Paddy Kavanagh face late fitness tests.

Previous meetings:
Bray Wanderers 1-2 Drogheda Utd Eircom League Premier Division 2007 6 Aug 07 ->>
Drogheda Utd 4-1 Bray Wanderers Eircom League Premier Division 2007 26 Jun 07 ->>
Drogheda Utd 1-1 Bray Wanderers Eircom League Premier Division 2006 22 Sep 06 ->>
Bray Wanderers 0-1 Drogheda Utd Eircom League Premier Division 2006 2 Jul 06 ->>
Drogheda Utd 1-0 Bray Wanderers Eircom League Premier Division 2006 31 Mar 06 ->>

Stan James Prices
Drogs 8/13
Draw 12/5
Bray 4/1

Drogheda:WWWWD
Bray:DDDDL
Referee Declan Hanney

UCD v St. Patrick's Athletic

Following the disappointment of their cup dismissal last weekend UCD could be forgiven for coveting a handy game this weekend. It will be anything but as the Saints come to Belfield in search of the points needed to secure second spot in the table. With five wins from their last six games, Pats are a side in top form and the Students will require a huge effort to raise their efforts in order to pick up the points necessary to safeguard their presence in next season's Premier Division. John McDonnell and his staff will be mindful of the fact that they have failed to defeat Pete Mahon's side in each of their last five attempts.

Previous meetings:
St Patricks Athletic 1-1 UCD Eircom League Premier Division 2007 6 Aug 07 ->>
UCD 2-2 St Patricks Athletic Eircom League Premier Division 2007 11 May 07 ->>
St Patricks Athletic 0-1 UCD Eircom League Cup 2007 7 May 07 ->>
UCD 0-0 St Patricks Athletic Eircom League Premier Division 2006 8 Sep 06 ->>
St Patricks Athletic 0-0 UCD Eircom League Premier Division 2006 23 Jun 06 ->>

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

UCD:DLDLL
Pats:WLWWW
Referee Paul Tuite

Waterford United v Galway United

Undoubtedly the crunch tie of the weekend in the top division with both of these sides sailing close to the relegation blade. Waterford's woeful goal difference may well be their downfall, even if they do manage to rein one of their targets in. Both sides are on similar formpaths, although the Blues hold psychological sway with victories in both previous encounters this year. John Sullivan returns from suspension for the visitors, with Greg O'Halloran sitting this week's game out. Daryl Robson is injured, but the return of John Fitzgerald provides a boost for the visitors. Meanwhile Gareth Cronin welcomes Vinny Sullivan back from his brief injury absence; unfortunately for the Blues Karl Bermingham has suffered a recurrence of his ankle injury and is very doubtful, while Alan Mulcahy serves a ban.
Previous meetings:
Galway Utd 1-2 Waterford United Eircom League Premier Division 2007 3 Aug 07 ->>
Waterford United 1-0 Galway Utd Eircom League Premier Division 2007 11 May 07 ->>

Stan James Prices
Waterford 5/4
Draw 2/1
Galway 2/1

Waterford:LWDWD
Galway:LWLDW
Referee Anthony Buttimer

Sligo Rovers v Cork City

Sligo Rovers have been something of a bogey team for Cork City this season; that 4-1 defeat at the Showgies will burn long in the minds of the Leesiders. Damian Richardson will be hoping that his squad can build upon last week's impressive showing; three league games without a win has seen his slide slip from pole position to pessimistic hopefuls in the race for the runner-up position. Gareth Farrelly's return may not provide the selection headache anticipated for el Rico- Joe Gamble's suspension leaves a berth vacant in midfield. With Shamrock Rovers breathing on their shirt collars City can ill afford to ease up at this stage, and will be hoping for a charitable performance from the tumbling Bit O'Red. They did manage to stop the rot after four defeats on the bounce with last week's scoreless draw at the aforementioned Hoops. Seamie Coleman returns from a ban for the hosts, but Daniel Ventre must stay seated following his recent red card at Waterford.

Previous meetings:
Cork City 1-2 Sligo Rovers Eircom League Premier Division 2007 3 Aug 07 ->>
Sligo Rovers 4-1 Cork City Eircom League Premier Division 2007 12 May 07 ->>
Cork City 2-0 Sligo Rovers Eircom League Premier Division 2006 20 Oct 06 ->>
Sligo Rovers 0-3 Cork City Eircom League Premier Division 2006 12 Sep 06 ->>
Cork City 2-0 Sligo Rovers Eircom League Premier Division 2006 2 May 06 ->>

Stan James Prices
Sligo 12/5
Draw 12/5
Cork 10/11

Sligo:LLLLD
Cork:WWDLL
Referee Dave McKeon

Finn Harps v Athlone Town

Harps' record of thirteen wins from fourteen games would suggest to Athlone Town that there is no point in turning up to Finn Park for Friday's televised offering. Strangely, with their season petering out into midtable anonymity, the Midlanders have scooped up seven of the last nine points offered them - the TV cameras often bring out the best in sides, although just scoring against the leaders is proving a difficult enough task. The visitors have not supped from the chalice of success at Finn Park for 15 years! The combination of solid defence and potent attack underscores Harps' tremendous surge to the summit and there is a huge weight of expectation on the shoulders of Paul Hegarty's men. Paul McTiernan's red card in midweek rules him out for the visitors, while the hosts welcome Tony Shields' return from a ban.

Previous meetings:
Athlone Town 1-0 Finn Harps Eircom League First Division 2007 1 Sep 07 ->>
Finn Harps 2-0 Athlone Town Eircom League First Division 2007 29 Jun 07 ->>
Athlone Town 2-2 Finn Harps Eircom League First Division 2007 28 Apr 07 ->>
Athlone Town 2-1 Finn Harps Eircom League First Division 2006 22 Sep 06 ->>
Athlone Town 1-1 Finn Harps Ford FAI Cup 2006 29 Aug 06 ->>

Stan James Prices
Harps 2/9
Draw 4/1
Athlone 9/1

Harps:WWWWW
Athlone:LLWDW
Referee Derek Tomney

Limerick 37 v Shelbourne

A fourth place finish would represent an acceptable season for either of these sides following difficult preparations for varying reasons early on in the year. The hosts hold both the point and positional advantage and a draw will cement their finishing spot. It's been honours even so far for two sides with recently inconsistent records, although Paul McGee's side will welcome the opportunity to avenge the 4-0 pasting they received when the pair last met at Tolka Park. Noel Haverty is on U19 duty with Ireland, while James Hussey's return is not imminent. Wayne Colbert is suspended for the visitors, but Paul McGee will be in the dugout as his appeal to a hefty fine and accompanying suspension is pending.

Previous meetings:
Shelbourne 4-0 Limerick 37 Eircom League First Division 2007 1 Sep 07 ->>
Limerick 37 3-2 Shelbourne Eircom League First Division 2007 29 Jun 07 ->>
Shelbourne 1-1 Limerick 37 Eircom League First Division 2007 27 Apr 07 ->>

Stan James Prices
Lims 5/4
Draw 9/4
Shels 7/4

Lims:WLLWL
Shels:LDWLL
Referee Hugo Whoriskey


Wexford Youths v Dundalk

Wexford hauled themselves from the basement with last week's fine win in the Marble City; they will be intent on maintaining their elevated status against a Dundalk side stuck in a pregnant pause. The Lilywhites incurred the wrath of boss John Gill following last week's abject effort and Gill must use the next couple of games to restore his side to the competitive level required if they are to succeed against the vanquished in the First Division title race. Especially displeased with Dundalk's defensive display last time out, we can expect changes in the back four; that said, Dundalk have scored nine without reply in the previous three games between the pair this year. David Crawley and Keith Dunne return from suspension for the visitors, although Paul Marney serves a one-game ban. Wexford will be hoping to have Eric Bradley back from his hamstring injury, especially as midfield dynamo Paul Malone misses the final games of the season through suspension - Ben Brosnan keeps him company this week.

Previous meetings:
Dundalk 2-0 Wexford Youths Eircom League First Division 2007 30 Aug 07 ->>
Wexford Youths 0-3 Dundalk Eircom League First Division 2007 30 Jun 07 ->>
Dundalk 4-0 Wexford Youths Eircom League First Division 2007 26 Apr 07 ->>

Stan James Prices
Wexford 5/2
Draw 9/4
Dundalk 10/11

Wexford:DLLLW
Dundalk:WWWLL
Referee Tom Connolly

Kildare County v Kilkenny City

This duo have struggled to put good results back to back of late, but both are due one to maintain the sequence this week. Kildare can at least point to the fact that they lost to the league leaders, while the Cats were collapsing at home to Wexford Youths. Little to inspire here. Eoghan Carew is due back from a ban for the Thoroughbreds, Michael Comerford likewise for City.

Previous meetings:
Kilkenny City 1-1 Kildare County Eircom League First Division 2007 1 Sep 07 ->>
Kildare County 3-3 Kilkenny City Eircom League First Division 2007 30 Jun 07 ->>
Kildare County 0-1 Kilkenny City Ford FAI Cup 2007 17 Jun 07 ->>
Kilkenny City 3-3 Kildare County Eircom League First Division 2007 27 Apr 07 ->>
Kildare County 2-1 Kilkenny City Eircom League First Division 2006 11 Nov 06 ->>

Stan James Prices
Kildare 4/5
Draw 9/4
Kilkenny 3/1

Kildare:WLWLL
Kilkenny:WDLWL
Referee Ed McNally

Cobh Ramblers v Monaghan United

Nothing less than three points will suffice for the hosts as they continue their battle for supremacy with Finn Harps. A poor record in their three previous clashed for the Mons suggests that this should be a formality for the hosts. Mons' Barry Burke is suspended, while John Kearney is available after serving his ban for the Rams.

Previous meetings:
Monaghan Utd 0-4 Cobh Ramblers Eircom League First Division 2007 1 Sep 07 ->>
Cobh Ramblers 3-0 Monaghan Utd Eircom League First Division 2007 30 Jun 07 ->>
Monaghan Utd 1-2 Cobh Ramblers Eircom League First Division 2007 29 Apr 07 ->>
Cobh Ramblers 2-1 Monaghan Utd Eircom League First Division 2006 14 Oct 06 ->>
Monaghan Utd 0-0 Cobh Ramblers Eircom League First Division 2006 13 Aug 06 ->>

Stan James Prices
Cobh 1/4
Draw 7/2
Mons 9/1

Cobh:LWWWW
Mons:LLLWD
Referee Ray Rogers

Monday Night Football - 22/10/07

Bohemians v UCD

This is a great time of the season to be facing the college boys; let alone the fact that this will be their second outing since Friday. Pete Mahon's side have but one focus at the moment - do not get injured for the cup semi-final. The Gypsys are much better equipped to handle the tightly packed schedule, and with Cork and Pats in opposition also, SC's side can make significant strides towards the second spot. UCD seemed both lethargic and aimless against Longford Town on Friday night and it's difficult to see them scoring against the division's most frugal back four. That said, Bohs have fired blanks in this season's two previous meetings. Dessie Byrne and Jason McGuinness returns from suspension for the hosts, but Stephen O'Donnell and Liam Burns join Dessie Byrne in the stands; Dean Pooley replaced McGuinness against Derry City last time out and should retain his spot. Joxer and Mark Rossiter are doubts but Ryan McCann and Harpal Singh provide adequate alternatives.
Bohs:LWWWW
UCD:WDLDL
Referee- Pat Whelan

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

Stan James Prices
Bohs
Draw
UCD

Cork City v St. Patrick's Athletic

el Rico's charges will have to improve defensively if they are to blunt the rampant saints attack in this mighty showdown. The Cork boss must have choked on his paracetemol as he watched desperate Dan's back four usher Guy Bates towards the City goal on Friday night. Brian O'Callaghan's return may add some steel. Meanwhile in Inchicore the Saints were rattling five past a broken Rovers eleven. It was the Leesiders' first defeat in eleven games, and Denis Behan and John Deadleg O'Flynn should find the Pats rearguard slightly easier to penetrate. At the other end of the park any repeat of the recent defensive generosity will be exploited by the division's top scorers. Darragh Ryan's absence continues, although Cillian Lordan is fit for consideration. Anto Murphy returns from a one game ban; otherwise the Saints squad is likely to remain unchanged. The mother of must win games for both sides!
Cork:WWWDL
Pats:WWLWW
Referee- Dave McKeon

Previous meetings:
St Patricks Athletic 1-1 Cork City Eircom League Premier Division 2007 27 Jul 07 ->>
Cork City 1-0 St Patricks Athletic Eircom League Premier Division 2007 3 May 07 ->>
St Patricks Athletic 1-0 Cork City Setanta Sports Cup 2007 2 Apr 07 ->>
Cork City 1-3 St Patricks Athletic Setanta Sports Cup 2007 12 Mar 07 ->>
St Patricks Athletic 0-1 Cork City Eircom League Premier Division 2006 6 Nov 06 ->>

Stan James Prices
Cork
Draw
Pats

Longford Town v Bray Wanderers

Bray were boosted by the much anticipated return of Colm Tresson last Friday and the Seagulls' stalwart almost netted a winner within minutes of his introduction from the bench. Eddie Gormley's side have been picking up points with quiet efficiency of late and have lost just one of their last seven league outings. longford's needs are greater. The Town are in a desperate situation and scrambling wildly for points; they haven't drawn on the road since picking up a point at United Park in early June. With their central defensive partnership back in situ last Friday they saw off UCD's wan challenge at Belfield; nothing lkess than a repeat will do beside the DART tracks.
Longford:LLLDW
Bray:WDDDD
Referee - Anthony Buttimer

Previous meetings:
Bray Wanderers 1-3 Longford Town Eircom League Premier Division 2007 27 Jul 07 ->>
Longford Town 1-1 Bray Wanderers Eircom League Premier Division 2007 5 May 07 ->>
Bray Wanderers 0-2 Longford Town Eircom League Premier Division 2006 15 Sep 06 ->>
Longford Town 1-0 Bray Wanderers Eircom League Premier Division 2006 27 Jun 06 ->>
Bray Wanderers 1-0 Longford Town Eircom League Premier Division 2006 16 May 06 ->>

Stan James Prices
Longford
Draw
Bray

Series 30 Preview

Bray Wanderers v Galway United

Bray celebrate the return of Colm Tresson from his protracted absence through injury for the visit of fellow strugglers Galway United. Eddie Gormley's side have collected points in each of their last four outings as they strive to pull away from the relegation quicksands, but will be keenly aware of Galway's victory at the Carlisle Grounds earlier in the campaign. The Tribesmens' decision to turn professional has not brought the kind of season that their fans had hoped for although they have surprised some of the top sides on occasion. With just one win from their last 6 attempts, and both Shaun Fagan and Daryl Robson ruled out through injury that victory last April seems a long way away.
Bray:LWDDD
Galway:DLLWL

Previous meetings:
Galway Utd 0-1 Bray Wanderers Eircom League Premier Division 2007 20 Jul 07 ->>
Bray Wanderers 0-1 Galway Utd Eircom League Premier Division 2007 27 Apr 07 ->>

Stan James Prices
Bray 5/4
Draw 2/1
Galway 2/1

Derry City v Bohemians

There's little more than pride at stake for a depleted Derry City squad. John Robertson is already building towards the 2008 campaign, and has been introducing some fringe players to the rarefied atmosphere of first team football. Both Pat McCourt and Ken Oman picked up knocks against Bray last Monday and and miss out along with Mark Farren and Sean Hargan; although the Candystripes are unaffected by suspensions. Bohs are handily placed to steal a march on their closest competitors with the fixtures favouring them this weekend; but will have to do so without the suspended Jason McGuinness and Dessie Byrne. John Paul Kelly is a doubt, although the overdue return of Harpal Singh compensates. The last three meetings between this duo have ended scoreless after 90 minutes.
Derry: LLLDD
Bohs:DLWWW

Previous meetings:
Derry City 0-0 Bohemians Eircom League Cup 2007 9 Oct 07 ->>
Bohemians 0-0 Derry City Eircom League Premier Division 2007 21 Jul 07 ->>
Derry City 0-0 Bohemians Eircom League Premier Division 2007 27 Apr 07 ->>
Derry City 1-1 Bohemians Eircom League Premier Division 2006 6 Oct 06 ->>
Bohemians 1-2 Derry City Eircom League Premier Division 2006 7 Jul 06 ->>

Stan James Prices
Derry 6/4
Draw 2/1
Bohs 13/8

St. Patrick's Athletic v Shamrock Rovers

Despite the potential absence of Joe Ndo, Keith Barker, Colm Foley, Barry Ryan and Anto Murphy's suspension, the Saints will still field a formidable eleven against a nosediving Rovers side. Pats were impressive when they hit Sligo Rovers for three in 45 minutes last weekend, less so in the second period. But with the Hoops struggling at both ends of the pitch. It is difficult to see pat Scully lifting them for the run-in. They field without Barry Ferguson, Ger O'Brien and Dave Cassidy through suspension, with John Martin, Padraig Amond and Aidan Price carrying injuries. Since defeating Bohs at Dalymount a month ago, Rovers have conceded six goals without reply in three outings- their worst run of the season.
Pats:LWWLW
Rovers:WWLLL

Previous meetings:
Shamrock Rovers 0-0 St Patricks Athletic Eircom League Premier Division 2007 23 Jul 07 ->>
St Patricks Athletic 2-1 Shamrock Rovers Eircom League Premier Division 2007 27 Apr 07 ->> Shamrock Rovers 0-2 St Patricks Athletic Ford FAI Cup 2006 27 Oct 06 ->> St Patricks Athletic
0-2 Shamrock Rovers Eircom League Cup 2006 2 May 06 ->>

Stan James Prices
Pats 11/10
Draw 2/1
Rovers 9/4

UCD v Longford Town

The biggest factor in Longford's favour here will be UCD's preoccupation with next weekend's Ford FAI Cup semi-final. Kevin Doherty and Damien Brennan return to bolster the Town backline as they continue their pursuit of Waterford United. Monday night's draw stopped a run of three defeats on the bounce for the threadbare squad at Flancare; Dave Freeman is out as is Jamie Duffy for the trip to Belfield. For the Students, Shane McFaul returns from suspension and Paul Byrne continues his progression to full fitness. Shane Fitzgerald has been troubled by that bane of speed merchants - a hangstring - for a month or so and may not be risked. Derek Doyle and Paul Crowley are still out. Alan Matthews side have lost just one of their last five meetings with UCD and must fancy their chances at Belfield.
UCD:LWDLD
Longford:DLLLD

Previous meetings:
Longford Town 1-0 UCD Eircom League Premier Division 2007 21 Jul 07 ->>
UCD 2-2 Longford Town Eircom League Premier Division 2007 27 Apr 07 ->>
UCD 3-1 Longford Town Eircom League Premier Division 2006 10 Nov 06 ->>
Longford Town 0-0 UCD Eircom League Premier Division 2006 12 Aug 06 ->>
UCD 2-2 Longford Town Eircom League Premier Division 2006 4 Jul 06 ->>

Stan James Prices
UCD Evs
Draw 2/1
Longford 5/2

Drogheda United v Cork City

There's rarely much to choose between this pair and with home advantage and just a single point required, it seems likely that Drogheda will capture their first ever Premier Division title before their own at United Park. Richie Baker is their only injury doubt, and there are no suspensions looming for the home side who impressed hugely in last week's dismissal of Shamrock Rovers challenge. Cork City have shown fine form of late, with Denis Behan scoring for fun; Joe Gamble returns to the fray at midfield and John O'Flynn is available again; skipper Dan Murray is back from suspension. Brian O'Callaghan and Cillian Lordan are fitness doubts, while Daragh Ryan's absence continues. Unlikely to be a classic for the TV audience with the Drogs past masters in the art of taking a draw.
Drogs:DWWWW
Cork:WWWWD

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

Stan James Prices
Drogs 11/10
Draw 2/1
Cork 9/4

Sligo Rovers v Waterford United

Neither side is weakened by suspension for this game, although the Bit O'Red welcome Seamus Coleman back from his sojourn with Don Givens'(no he's not Sicilian) U21 squad. While still mathematically possible, it is highly unlikely that Sligo are going to reach the heights of European qualification and one hopes that Paul Cook's recent claims regarding his squad's limitations have not afforded the playing staff an opportunity to switch off. In fairness, they did recover from an abysmal first half effort last time out to plunder two excellent goals and Faz and Judge provide a potent threat to any defence. The Blues continue to splash about in the relegation placings, but with Galway United within range now they still have a lot to play for; however they have been dogged by their abject achievements away from home - a meagre return of six points from 14 games is the division's worst record.
Sligo:DWLLL
Waterford: DDLWD

Previous meetings:
Sligo Rovers 2-2 Waterford United Ford FAI Cup 2007 21 Aug 07 ->>
Waterford United 1-1 Sligo Rovers Ford FAI Cup 2007 17 Aug 07 ->>
Waterford United 1-2 Sligo Rovers Eircom League Premier Division 2007 20 Jul 07 ->>
Sligo Rovers 1-1 Waterford United Eircom League Premier Division 2007 28 Apr 07 ->>
Sligo Rovers 0-0 Waterford United Eircom League Premier Division 2006 14 Oct 06 ->>

Stan James Prices
Sligo 4/5
Draw 9/4
Waterford 3/1

Limerick 37 v Kilkenny City

To manage just one win in seven attempts and hold your position in the table reflects poorly on the efforts of the clubs beneath Limerick 37; they don't come much more beneath than the Cats.
Off the back of victory over Monaghan United and keeping Shelbourne scoreless they were pulverised by Cobh Ramblers last time out. Consolidation at the back will probably be uppermost in Noel Byrne's mind for this game - City can still overhaul newcomers Wexford Youths in the basement battle. Speaking of Defence Forces, Michael Comerford and Thomas Hughes are on World Cup duty. Limerick are reputed to have parted company with striker Robbie Kelliher during the week; Pat Purcell and Kevin Waters return from suspensions.
Lims:DDLWL
Kilkenny:LLWDL

Previous meetings:
Kilkenny City 2-0 Limerick 37 Eircom League First Division 2007 11 Aug 07 ->>
Limerick 37 2-2 Kilkenny City Eircom League First Division 2007 22 Jun 07 ->>
Kilkenny City 0-1 Limerick 37 Eircom League First Division 2007 13 Apr 07 ->>

Stan James Prices
Lims 1/2
Draw 12/5
Kilkenny 11/2

Monaghan United v Shelbourne

Last week v Dundalk Mons showed signs of the form they displayed in mid-season when walloping Shels 4-0; Dermot Keely's side have not managed to better this weekend's opponents during their three meetings this season. Mick Cooke's task is not helped by a heavily populated list of absentees - Alvin Rouse, Willie Tyrell, Jason McCartney and Peter Darcy are all carrying what are euphemistically referred to as knocks. Barry Burke continues his suspension; Stephen Finnegan returns from a ban but he too is carrying a knock and will play no part in proceedings.
in fairness to Shels they have attempted to accommodate their hosts with a similar list of non-combatants. Jim Crawford, Jamie Chambers and Stuart Malcolm serve bans, while Anto Flood and Glen Lacey face fitness tests. No doubt they are studying as I write. James Hussey remains sidelined following his domestic accident.
Mons:WDDDD
Shels:LWLDW

Previous meetings:
Shelbourne 1-1 Monaghan Utd Eircom League First Division 2007 10 Aug 07 ->>
Monaghan Utd 4-0 Shelbourne Eircom League First Division 2007 22 Jun 07 ->>
Shelbourne 1-1 Monaghan Utd Eircom League First Division 2007 13 Apr 07 ->>

Stan James Prices
Mons 2/1
Draw 9/4
Shels 11/10

Wexford Youths v Finn Harps

On paper this appears to be the weekend's banker, on grass anything can happen. The Youths secured their first ever away success in top-flight football against Harps; a repeat seems unlikely. With their fate very much at their own feet Higgsy's side have shown impressive degrees of focus and resolve to power their way to the summit. Even in the absence of Harps' captain Tony Shields and the possible loss of defenders Declan Boyle and Johnathan Minnock, the leaders should still have too much for the inconsistent home side. A warning for the league leaders though, Cobh Ramblers could manage only a scoreless draw on their last visit to Wexford.
Wexford:DDDLL
Harps:WWWWW

Previous meetings:
Finn Harps 1-0 Wexford Youths Eircom League First Division 2007 10 Aug 07 ->>
Wexford Youths 0-1 Finn Harps Eircom League First Division 2007 23 Jun 07 ->>
Finn Harps 1-2 Wexford Youths Eircom League First Division 2007 13 Apr 07 ->>

Stan James Prices
Youths 11/2
Draw 12/5
Harps 1/2

Kildare County v Athlone Town

If nothing else, we can expect this tie to produce goals, although the suspended Darren Stapleton won't be contributing for the home side, who are also without striker Philly Gorman who is also at the Defence Forces World Cup thingy. There's little but local pride at stake here with both sides in relative limbo until next season's edition.

Kildare: WLWLW
Athlone:LWDLL

Previous meetings:
Athlone Town 4-2 Kildare County Eircom League First Division 2007 11 Aug 07 ->>
Kildare County 2-1 Athlone Town Eircom League First Division 2007 23 Jun 07 ->>
Athlone Town 0-2 Kildare County Eircom League First Division 2007 14 Apr 07 ->>
Kildare County 2-2 Athlone Town Eircom League First Division 2006 21 Oct 06 ->>
Athlone Town 1-2 Kildare County Eircom League First Division 2006 18 Aug 06 ->>

Stan James Prices
Kildare Evs
Draw 9/4
Athlone 9/4

Cobh Ramblers v Dundalk

This pairing represents the other end of the scale, with everything to play for between two committed sides hurtling hopefully towards the Premier Division. Things are beautifully poised at the top of the table and both sides have returned to winning ways following some indifferent outings in recent games. The crucial difference between the sides this year has been the Lilywhites' failure to score against the Rams in three previous meetings. Cobh's goalfest last weekend has extended their advantage and a win for Dundalk will draw them level, though they will still trail the Rams on goal difference. Stephen Henderson's side have no suspension worries, while Thomas McGauley serves a one game ban for the visitors. Definitely the crunch game of the weekend, with Cobh's nigh impenetrable defence likely to steer them safely harbour.
Dundalk:LWWWW

Previous meetings:
Dundalk 0-0 Cobh Ramblers Eircom League First Division 2007 12 Aug 07 ->>
Cobh Ramblers 1-0 Dundalk Eircom League First Division 2007 23 Jun 07 ->>
Dundalk 0-0 Cobh Ramblers Eircom League First Division 2007 15 Apr 07 ->>
Cobh Ramblers 2-3 Dundalk Eircom League First Division 2006 30 Sep 06 ->>
Dundalk 1-1 Cobh Ramblers Eircom League First Division 2006 29 Jul 06 ->>

Stan James Prices
Cobh 11/10
Draw 2/1
Dundalk 9/4