Shelbourne 1-0 College Corinthians

By Aidan Geraghty @1895Aidan

Shelbourne progressed to the quarter-final of the FAI Cup on Friday night, one step closer to what might be their eleventh national cup victory. But Reds fans will be more concerned about other things; namely their substandard performance against non-league opposition and a nasty looking injury to captain Glenn Cronin.

The killer blow in this one came in just the fifth minute. Seán Brennan delivered a corner-kick into the box and Dean Kelly rose above the Corinthians defence to put the League club 1-0 up.

The amateur Corkonian side gave Shels some minor worries in the first-half but inefficiency meant Niall Burdon's job wasn't too difficult. The most notable chance ended up in a double-save by the young Frenchman after two successive shots by Peter Moreland.

A penalty claim and two or three inaccurate shots were as close as the game came to a goal before the interval and both sides would have considered themselves fortunate not to concede any more than they did.

After the restart, Adam Hanlon's pace caused nightmares for the Corinthians defence. It was evident that the winger had an extra yard (or ten) over both full-backs and he made sure the small crowd knew it. He delivered a number of quality balls into the box, none of which were converted into shots by Kelly or Murtagh. A good team move ended in a powerful shot outside of Power's right hand post after 53 minutes but it was downhill from here for the Reds.

Shelbourne had a nervy final half hour and David Welch forged a number of chances for Corinthians which ended in near-misses, the most significant of which was a looping header that eventually fell into Burdon's hands.

Shelbourne fans collectively worried for the welfare of their captain Glenn Cronin when he was on the receiving end of a malicious tackle from a Corinthians player. The Ballyfermot-native needed two-men to help him leave the pitch and early reports suggest he has sustained a serious knee injury.

The final opportunity of the game was for the visitors. Luke Connolly found himself in some space to pass to Welch who, again, narrowly missed the Ballybough End goal. This time, he hit it wide of the target.

Shelbourne: Niall Burdon; Rob Cornwall, Ian Ryan, Paul Andrews, Pat Flynn; Adam Hanlon, Glenn Cronin (Sheerin), Stephen Hurley, Seán Brennan (Tinnelly); Dean Kelly, Lee Murtagh.

College Corinthians: Mark Power; Richard Cronin, Josh Kra, Colin O’Shea, Robbie Brohan; Peter Moreland, Chris Madden (Stihler), Ricky O’Sullivan, Edwin Buckley (Browne); David Welch, Luke Connolly.

Attendance: 336

Referee: Rob Rogers

OnTheSidelines Man of the Match: Adam Hanlon (Shelbourne)

Sligo Rovers v Cork City

By @bit_red

Sligo Rovers

Sligo Rovers are at home to Cork City tonight in the FAI Cup quarter-final. They are without David McMillan who is cup-tied and his brother Evan who is suffering from a knee injury and will be out for up to 4 weeks. They are also without Ross Gaynor who is suffering from a knee injury and Iarfhlaith Davoren who has picked up a calf injury.

Ian Baraclough gave his view to sligorovers.com ahead of the game: 

“We are hoping to have a long run and prosper in this competition. We’re fully aware of what it means to supporters and our history and association with the FAI Cup. A good run would give us a boost for the rest of the season. It is a home game and I can’t imagine Cork are relishing the long trip up to the North-West. We have to make that count on Saturday. Hard work and the right approach to the game will get us a long way.”

“Cork have moved into the top half of the Premier Division and I feel this is the tie of the round. We have to be at it from the off. The club were cup holders for two years prior to an early exit last season and I would very much like to do well in it again.”

  

Cork City

Cork will be without the services of Daryl Horgan who is suspended. He was influential in the Cork win over Sligo earlier in the season. Garry Buckley is also suspended, while Ciaran Kilduff is cup-tied. Both Kevin Murray and Darren Dennehy are still sidelined with long term injuries and Dave Ryan is out with a groin complaint. Finally, Gearoid Morissey is a doubt with an ankle injury.

Cork’s caretaker boss Ashton acknowledged the extent of their injury list but remained hopeful nonetheless. Speaking to corkcityfc.ie,  Ashton comments :

“It’s a cup tie, so it’s a change and a game without the pressures of the league. I think both will welcome the break from the league and will go out to play football and enjoy the game. It has the potential to be a real cup tie, with both teams going out to win it. It is our only realistic chance of winning silverware this season and I’m sure Sligo will be looking at it is a competition they can win also.”

“Hopefully we can win the game on the night but if not, a draw would be a great result if we can bring it back to Turner’s Cross and try to finish the tie there. We are going up there to win the game but we won’t be stupid and risk throwing it away. The downside for us is the number of players we are missing and from that point of view we will have to do a bit of re-jigging. That said it is up to the players who come in to show their worth, show they are in the squad in the first place and step up to the plate” 

Match Stats:

Both teams have beaten each other this season. Sligo first beat Cork 2-0 at home but Cork came back with a 3-1 win at Turner’s Cross. The last time the sides were drawn together in the FAI Cup was in 2009. In the first game that year, Cork City took the lead twice (through Shane Duggan and Denis Behan), but were pegged back both times taking the tie to a replay in Sligo.  This time Cork’s Guntar Silagilis put the Leesiders ahead but Raffaele Cretaro sent the game into extra time. Cretaro gave the Bit O’Red the lead in extra time, but when Danny Murphy missed a penalty in the 111th minute, Cork City saw their hopes of FAI Cup success disappear. (via corkcityfc.ie). 

Betting:

Sligo 2/4 Draw 3/1 Cork City 7/1

Prediction:

Sligo Rovers 2 - 1 Cork City

Dundalk brush past the Champions

Dundalk 2-0 Sligo Rovers

Dundalk brushed past the Champions Sligo Rovers with a fairly comfortable 2-0 win in Oriel park infornt of a packed house of over 3,000 spectators.

It was a quick start to the game and Sligo started off the brighter side and they had tehir first chances after six minutess when  Joey Ndo took a quick free kick set up Alan Keane who crossed for Gavin Peers who headed over the bar.

Dundalk were beginning to have  a spell of momentum and through Darren Meenan, Dundalk tested the Sligo keeper with some testing crosses. You could feel something was going to happen soon as Dundalk looked dangerous in attack.

On the quarter of an hour gone Kurtis Byrne broke forward and sent it on to Richie Towell whom then headed it into the box for Pat Hoban whom with his back to goal quickly turned with an overhead kick to the top corner leaving Rogers with no chance in the Sligo goal.

The goal did seem to give Sligo that kick they needed and they put the home side under some significant pressure until half time. The impressive Djillalli for Sligo took advantage of some sloppy play from Mark Rossiter and he broke through and took a shot on goal,however it went inches wide and didn't trouble Peter Cherrie too much. Djillalli continued to trouble Dundalk and his cross met Gavin Peers who hit the bar with a header.

Dundalk went in half time 1 nil up.

Dundalk came out all guns blazing and were very impressive. Stephen O'Donnell had a chance but for his shot being blocked and Dane Masseys cross was so close to been met by Kurtis Byrne at the back post.

Sligo goalkeeper Rogers had to make  agood save from Ricghie Towell as he took a blast at goal and through the following corner Brian Gartland’s header was deflected wide. From that corner, Meenan’s cross causes even more trouble with Rogers unable to claim and Byrne's shot was blocked and it went out for yet another corner as Dundalk continued to pile on the pressure

Eventually, Dundalks dominance was made to count as they doubled their lead  when Meenan’s pin point cross found the head of substitute Chris Shields and he powered his header to the net to give the hosts a 2-0 lead.

Meenan, the creater yet again as he won a free kick against and sent the cross in but for Hoban to just head over.

Dundalk were fairly comfortable now and could have had a penalty when Stephen O'Donnell went tumbling down in the box but referee Neil Doyle waved play on.

Substitute Danny North had an effort from far out was deflected wide and it went out for a corner, from the corner Sligo really should have scored, with Cretaro's shot beating everyone but hitting straight off the post and Dundalk got rid of the danger.

The time was up as Dundalk  recorded another impressive night this season  as they keep up the pressure on league leaders Patricks Athletic.

Man of the match: Richie Towell (Dundalk)

DUNDALK: Peter Cherrie; Mark Rossiter, Andy Boyle, Brian Gartland, Dane Massey; Richie Towell, Stephen O’Donnell; Darren Meenan, John Dillon(Chris Shields 51); Kurtis Byrne(John Sullivan 88), Patrick Hoban(Vinny Faherty 90).

Subs not used: Francis McCaffrey, Jordan Keegan, Francis McCaffrey, Ciaran O’Connor, Aaron Shanahan(GK)

Booked: Towell(41)

Sent off: None.

Sligo Rovers: Gary Rogers; Alan Keane, Gavin Peers, Jeff Henderson, Seamus Conneely(Danny North 63); Kieran Djilali, David Cawley, Joseph Ndo, Aaron Greene, Rafaele Cretaro(Lee Lynch 81); Anthony Elding.

Subs not used: Pascal Millien, Danny Ventre, Lee Lynch, Jake Dykes, Liam Martin, Ciaran Kelly(GK)

Booked: Peers(52)

Sent off: None.

Referee: Neil Doyle

Attendance: 3,031

Derry City 0 VS 2 Drogheda United

Another miserble night at the brandywell for the candystripes as once again they lose to Drogheda.

Derry actully started the game brighter and Rory Patterson had a chance to make it 1-0 to Derry but they went wide after a poor cross from Paddy Kavanagh.

Drogheda could have taken the lead on the 18th minute when a mistake from Eoghan Osbourne allowed Cathal Brady to cross the ball to Gavin Brennan whos shot went over the bar but soon after Fabio O`Brein had a chance when he beat the offisde trap but Gerrard Doherty came to Derry`s rescue and it remained 0-0.

Derry`s best chance came on the 30th minute when Patrick Mc Eleney took a shot which did trouble Schilngerman and Paddy Kavangh`s corner went to patterson whos shot was saved and Ruadhri Higgans sent the ball well over the net.

Drogheda took the lead on the 38th minute Fabio O`Brein who has been a real thorn in the side for Derry over the years took a shot but it was defecled off Gerrard Doherty who appered to have taken an injury and Gavin Brennan took advantage and made it 1-0 to Drogheda.

Half Time Score Derry City 0-1 Drogheda United

Drogheda United dominated the start of the second with both the Brennan brothers casuing trouble for the candystripes.

Drogheda where awarded a pelenty when Shane McEleney had apparntly barged Ryan Brennan.

Ryan Brennan took the pelenty and scored 2-0 to Drogheda more misery for Derry.

Declan Devine made some much needed chances brining on Barry Molloy, Barry McNamee and Marc Griffin but to no avail.

Barry Molloy did have a chance to make it 2-1 but his shot was saved by Schilngerman and Barry McNamee coudlnt get anything out of the rebound.

Derry had one last real chance in the 76th minute a header from Ryan McBride did go close but didn`t go in and Drogheda kept it 2-0.

Full Time and Drogheda continue to be a bogey side for Derry City.

Full Time Derry City 0-2 Drogheda United

By Adam Quigley - Nixon

Bray Wanderers 1-2 Cork City - Bray below par as City head west with all three points.

Cork City traveled to the east coast this evening to face Bray Wanderers and left with all three points in the bag thanks to an 80th minute Ciaran Kilduff strike.

The game had a lively start with City's Danny Morrissey firing straight at Darren Quigley from range before Bray attack and Kieran Marty Waters attempts an audacious lob over Mark McNulty's head only to see his shot go narrowly over the crossbar.

Soon after the visitors took the lead. The ball fell for Ian Turner 25 yards from goal and he unleashed a sublime strike with the outside of his right foot which flew in to Quigley's goal.

After this goal it only looked like more were going to follow, with City constructing attack after attack and with every one of these attacks, the Bray defense looked shakier and shakier each time. This shaky Bray defence was never more evident than the minute of madness in which Cork had countless opportunities to double their lead. Darren Quigley was forced into a world class double save before a third shot was blocked right in front of goal by Danny O'Connor.

A short while later Kilduff was through on Quigley's goal after a perfect ball from Dan Murray found him free, only to miss his shot.

Then came the Bray equaliser, a high ball in from Waters found Ismahil Akinade who seemed to be hanging in the air for an eternity who fired a great header past McNulty in the City goal to draw his side level.

After this Bray upped their game for a while. Marty Waters won a free kick 25-yards-out which Jason Byrne fired way over.

Half time came and the sides could not be separated. 1-1 the score as the teams head in for the break.

The first chance of the second half fell to Bray's Gary Dempsey who headed straight into the arms of McNulty from close range.

Turner then tried to beat Quigley for the second time but his shot lacked any real conviction and was easy to deal with in the end.

It began to be taken for granted that Akinade would win every header and he did just that again as he headed at goal only to find it trickle agonisingly past the far post.

An Ian Turner corner found Dan Murray six yards out who fired his volley very high and very wide as it flies out onto the Quinsboro Road. A great opportunity missed. Should have been 2-1.

The home side began to get a real foothold on the game as another effort was deflected wide for a corner which resulted in nothing more than a free kick to Cork in their own box.

Waters once again tries his luck from range but it never looks like troubling the City goal as it flies way over.

A Gearoid Morrissey corner forced Quigley to punch clear off his goal line.

Ciaran Kilduff finally beats Quigley with just ten minutes to spare after the kind of defending that will leave Pat Devlin having nightmares for the rest of the week. The Cork striker wormed his way past the Bray defense before slotting home from a narrow angle.

Full time score: Bray Wanderers 1-2 Cork City

Follow Conor Clancy on Twitter: @conorclancy9

City look to avenge semi-final defeat

    Derry City v Drogheda United

Friday 16th August, Brandywell Stadium, 7:45pm

@jp_fahy previews

Derry City go into this one looking to avenge their semi-final defeat eleven days ago as they welcome Mick Cooke’s Drogheda United to the Brandywell for the fourth time this season; the first two meetings finished 1-1 whilst Drogheda ran out easy 3-1 winners in the EA Sports League Cup Semi-Final last Monday night. 
 

It is the sixth meeting between the two this season with Derry having the advantage in the league encounters with a draw and a win whilst United have the upper hand in the cups with two wins and a draw. In the first meeting Derry came up against an inspired Gabriel Sava who single-handedly kept Derry at bay with save after save before a Michael Daly header nine minutes from time grabbed a point for the visitors; whilst a Rory Patterson double and an Alan Byrne own goal sealed a 3-2 victory for the Candystripes at Hunky Dory Park back in May.
 

Derry City
 

However the Candystripes will have to plan without influential centre half Stewart Greacen who suffered a knee problem in the semi-final defeat as well as captain Kevin Deery who is also struggling with his knee. Declan Devine has been able to call upon Thomas Crawley in recent weeks who has been out injured for the last few months with a hamstring injury, with the signing of Eoghan Osborne in the window and the form of Michael Duffy on the wing Crawley, for the time being will have to settle for a place on the bench.

 

 

Drogheda United
 

Drogheda striker Declan ‘Fabio’ O’Brien has scored five goals in five appearances this season against Derry including a brace in the semi-final just over a week ago, however the Co. Louth side must make the trip North without the services of Shane Grimes who is suspended whilst Graham Rusk and Gary O’Neill are both injured.
 

This game will see the league’s two leading marksmen go head to head in the form of Rory Patterson (16) and Declan ‘Fabio’ O’Brien (13); Patterson’s double at UCD last week was first goal(s) since the start of June and the striker will no doubt be delighted to have gotten back on the score sheet after missing a penalty at a crucial stage against Sligo the previous week.  Victory at UCD ended a run of six defeats in seven matches in all competitions whilst Drogheda’s 3-0 win over Limerick was enough to see them claim their first win in nine games so both teams have been a bit rusty recently which should make for a fascinating game.
 

 

Stats

 

- Its the 6th meeting between the sides this season, Derry winning 1 and Drogheda winning 2 with 2 draws (both 1-1 at the Brandywell)

 

- The game see's the leagues top two marksmen go head to head, Rory Patterson (16) & Declan O'Brien (13)

 

- Patterson has scored 4 times against Drogheda this season whilst O'Brien has 5 from 5 against Derry

 

- Derry have taken 4 four points from the two league encounters this season with a Patterson brace at Hunky Dory Park needed to secure a 3-2 win for the Foylesiders

 

- That 3-2 win was only Derry's 2nd win in 10 games against the Boynesiders

 

 

 

 

Airtricity League Premier Division: Bottom Four Fight Heating Up

With the third series of fixtures underway in the Airtricity League of Ireland, the battle at the bottom is shaping up to end in thrilling fashion with all still very much to play for. The four teams in the most immediate danger of the drop are separated by just four points; Bohemians, Bray Wanderers, Shelbourne, and UCD. Bohs currently sit bottom with 18 points, next in line are Bray with 20, then Shels, also with 20 but a goal difference which betters that of Bray by 4, fourth from bottom sit UCD with 22 points. Even outside of these four, Drogheda United sit in eight place with 26 points, leaving the Louth side not too far from the danger zone themselves.

First things first, I’ll start at bottom club Bohs and their survival chances. It was predicted by many that this season would be a struggle for the Dublin side, but just how much of a struggle was always in question.

Their season started relatively well with a 2-1 victory over UCD. They went on to pick up seven points from their first five games in which they defeated two relegation rivals UCD and Shelbourne, and shared a point with fierce rivals Shamrock Rovers in Dalymount Park. Then things took a turn, losing three on the trot to Derry, Limerick and Dundalk. Bohs began to realise they were involved in this relegation scrap.

One major contributing factor to where Bohs find themselves is that they, unlike the teams around them, have not really had a good run of games this season. Had they have put a run together like those around them did, they would be well clear of this fight but instead they find themselves at the foot of the table.

One factor that could play into their hands is the very stature of the club. Bohemian Football Club is a huge club in Irish football terms. It is a club which has never been relegated. Travelling to Dalymount to play Bohemians still has a certain feel to it. Travelling to an intimidating ground to come up against a big club who, if you ask anyone associated with the club, belong nowhere near the bottom of the table. I’m certain it will be drilled into the players that this club is almost too big to go down and I expect Bohs to put up more of a fight in the final series of fixtures.

Next, I’ll take a look at Bray. The Seagulls find themselves second from bottom in the league. They also have the second worst defence in the league, with only UCD leaking more goals than them to date this season. At a first glance, things look pretty bleak for the league’s only Wicklow based team. But Bray do have a few factors which could prove to work in their favour. Pat Devlin’s men are one of, if not the most experienced League of Ireland side when it comes to fighting for their lives, and more often than not they come out on top. They will not be panicking about the fact that they find themselves near the foot of the table as it’s very much where they expect to be season after season.

Another thing which gives Bray hope is their record goal-scorer Jason Byrne. Since returning to the club in 2012 the veteran striker has netted 26 times in just 40 games. Byrne is a man who is always capable of scoring with just one chance and having him in the team means Bray will always be likely to score goals. Young gun Ismahil Akinade has also been finding his goal scoring touch since the halfway point of the season and should he continue this form Bray could well pull off a surprise or two before the season ends.

Tolka Park next, and Shelbourne the team to be looked at. Another big club that find themselves battling for their lives. For a long time Shels looked dead and buried, written off by most who follow the league and the teams above them possibly even began to relax. Following the departure of manager Alan Matthews in May and the arrival of Johnny McDonnell they began to show some fight and claw their way back into the battle.

Perhaps being written off by almost everybody helped, it certainly would have eased the pressure as nobody expected anything from them. Their best run of form came as they burst into life with a draw away to Drogheda was followed by successive victories over Cork City, Limerick and UCD, then came a draw away to fellow strugglers Bray before finally succumbing to defeat at the hands of Dundalk. Shels have come into form at a good time and this could be a decisive factor in regards to their survival hopes.

Now to the team who currently sit four points clear of bottom, UCD. Like Bray, UCD are well used to finding themselves at the bottom of the table as the season reaches its end.

Like Bray and Shelbourne, UCD showed signs that they are capable of winning games. UCD’s hot streak coincided with Bray’s. The Students have a massively inexperienced squad. The coaching staff at UCD will be experienced at fighting the drop, the players, on the other hand will not. With the right guidance UCD will be able to remain calm and keep their heads above water. Knees will no doubt be trembling in the dressing room at Belfield, it will be interesting to see how The Students handle the pressure of another relegation dog-fight.

It could well come down to the remaining fixtures between each clubs, I have put together a small table of games in which the bottom four have faced each other. 

Mervue United v Athlone Town Preview

Mervue United welcome table toppers Athlone Town to Fahys Field on Friday night in a big game for both sides. Mervue will be looking for a win to keep their slight promotion chances alive
as they sit four points outside the play offs whilst  Roddy Collins men will be looking for a win here to keep their  lead at the top at 5 points or maybe even extend
it if Waterford and Longford both fail to win.

Last time out Mervue played out a bore 0-0 draw with southerners Wexford Youths in Fahy's field whilst Athlone extended their lead at the top to 5 points with a hard fought 1-0 victory over
near neighbours and fellow title challengers Longford in front of a bumper crowd at City Calling Stadium.

Roddy Collins has a full squad to choose from for the trip west. James O'Brien is available for selection for the town again after he was suspended for the derby against Longford and
captain Aidan Collins who was strechered off against Longford is expected to overcome his injury and take his place in the heart of the Athlone defence.

Meanwhile Mervue United will also have no inury or suspension worries for the visit of Athlone on Friday night. Jason Molloy and Ryan Manning both return from their suspensions and
Gary Curran and Gary Kelly are both expected to play some role in the game on Friday as they return from injury.

Previous Meetings - The last three meetings this season between the two sides have  produced two draws and a win for the midlanders Athlone.

An un exciting 0-0 draw in Lissywollen was played out between the two sides on the first game of the season.

Whilst in gameweek eight at Fahy's Field  a debatable Philly Gorman penalty in injury time for Athlone ensured that Athlone rescued
a draw.

In the third meeting of the season at Lissywollen  Athlone ran out easy 3-0 winners after Mervue had a man sent off early in the game.

Prediction -
It looks like it could be a tight encounter once more this season between the two sides but Athlone are on red hot form at the moment and have only conceded 1 goal in their last eight
games but Mervue have only lost once in Fahy's field this season and that was in late May.
We should be in for a great encounter here but I expect Athlone to just edge it out and move a step closer to the 1st division title.

My Prediction - Mervue United 0-1 Athlone Town


Top League goalscorers:
Mervue United: Ryan Manning (8), Gary Shanahan (5), Jason Molloy, Eric Molloy (4)
Athlone Town: Philly Gorman (12), Ian Sweeney (5), Garbhan Coughlan, Ryan Coombes (3)

Match Officials -
Referee - A Mullaly
Assistant-  E O'Shea
Assistant -  A Dunne
Fourth Official - J McLoughlin

Barclays Premier League Preview- Aston Villa

After avoiding relegation last season, Paul Lambert has chopped and changed his squad, but most importantly for Villa fans, kept hold of top goalscorer Christian Benteke. Despite their woes from last season, pundits are predicting that the Villains can successfully avoid the drop again this year.

Last season:

Lambert began his reign by releasing Emile Heskey and Carlos Cuellar, and selling James Collins to West Ham United for 2.5 million. He brought in Brett Holmann, Karim El Ahmadi, Matt Lowton, Ron Vlaar (who he made captain), Joe Bennett, Ashley Westwood, Jordan Bowery and Benteke. 2 wins in their first 13 games was a sign of things to come, and in January they sat 19th in the table, with the worst goal difference of the bottom 5, after a heavy 8-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge. April was the key month, with Villa losing only once, to Manchester United, picking up wins at Stoke, and hammering Sunderland 6-1. Those results put Villa 16th, and with only 1 defeat in May, they finished comfortably in  the end in 15th place, 5 clear of relegation.

On the cup scene, they exited the FA Cup in January to Millwall, but stunned Man City by beating them in the second round of the League Cup, where they would reach the semi-finals, only to be beaten by Bradford City on aggregate.

Top Scorer- Christian Benteke (23)
Fan's Player of the Season: Christian Benteke
League Position: 15th
League Cup: Semi Finals
Fa Cup: Fourth Round

The Gaffer: Paul Lambert

With honours both on and off the pitch, Lambert is one of the most respected managers in English Football. As a player he won the Champions League with Dortmund in 1995, as well as 4 SPL's, 4 Scottish Cups and 2 Scottish League Cups with Celtic and St.Mirren, and he was inducted into the Scottish Football Hall Of Fame in 2009. He then went on to manage Livingston, and Colchester, before taking Norwich to back-to-back promotions from League 1 to the Premier League, winning the Championship Manager of the Year in 2011

Key Player: Christian Benteke

Initially handing in a transfer request, the Belgian withdrew it and instead signed a new 4-year deal at the club. The 22 year old was a handful for defenders last season, and his goals should fire Villa to a mid table finish.

One To Watch: Nicklas Helenius

Voted as the Danish Superliga's player of the season, Benteke will be assisted by the 6ft 5in monster that is Nicklas Helenius, who scored 40 goals in 102 appearances for Aalborg. The speed and strength of the Belgian, combined with the aerial prowess of Helenius is certainly whetting the appetite of Villa fans

Transfers In:
Alexsander Tonev
Jores Okore
Leandro Bacuna
Nicklas Helenius
Antonio Luna

Transfers Out:
Richard Dunne
Eric Lihaj
Brett Holman

First 6 fixtures: Arsenal (A), Chelsea (A), Liverpool (H), Newcastle (H), Norwich (A), Man City(H)

Prediction: Benteke repeating his form from last season, and with the new signings, Villa won't have any fears of relegation this season! 12th

Bray Wanderers vs Cork City

Crunch game by the Seaside, as Bray Wanderers entertain Cork City

The Seagulls
After defeat away to the champions last weekend, Bray are looking nervously over their shoulders, sitting just 2 points clear of Bohemians at the bottom. They haven't won in their last 8 league games, but they will be boosted tonight by the return of Danny and Shane O'Conner. Ishamail ''Izzy'' Akinade completed his suspension last week, so he is also available.

Speaking to Bray's official website, Pat Devlin was disappointed at not getting a result in Sligo.

“We just need to continue the way we are playing. We have been doing well and our attitude has been spot on and we just need to continue in that vein and just keep playing and our luck will change.”

Bray still have trips to Talllaght and The Brandywell to come, 3 points tonight could be crucial in their battle for survival

The Rebel Army
It was a nice feeling for fans of the Leesiders last weekend vs Bohemians, as Cork had something to celebrate. Danny Morrissey popped up to score a 94th winner to hand 3 vital points to Stuart Ashton's men. The goal broke tradition, as so often has been the case this season, it's been Cork who have conceded late goals, dropping a total of 14 points in the last 5 minutes of games so far.

Ashton is aware about how big this game is, as he spoke to the club's website

“It is an important game for us. After getting a win last week against Bohemians, it is another game against a team who are close to us in the table. It is important that we believe, that we keep playing and that we build on last week’s win.”
“It was good to get the win last week, but it will be significant if we can follow it up with another result and get some momentum going, rather than the inconsistency we have had up to now. We need to approach the game in the right frame of mind and hopefully keep going in the right direction.”

 Neal Horgan (knee) is doubtful for the tie, while Darren Dennehy (foot) and Kevin Murray (groin) remain sidelined. Daryl Horgan continues to serve his suspension after dismissal at Limerick, but Kalen Spillane is back after his red against St.Pats.

Stats:
Since returning to the Premier Division, Cork have only managed to put back-to-back wins together once!

Before their barren spell, Bray had picked up 13 points from a possible 15.

Bray's home form is identical to the Rebel's Away form. Wanderers have won two, drawn four and lost six of their home league games this season with a goal difference of minus eight. City have won two, drawn four and lost six of their away league games this season with a goal difference of minus eight.

Prediction: Confidence is high Leeside, and that should just get them over the line. Bray Wanderers 1-2 Cork City

Wexford Youths v Cobh Ramblers Preview

By Kevin Galvin

@shefellover93

Cobh Ramblers can jump ahead of Wexford Youths with a win tonight in their Airtricity League First Division clash at Ferrycarraig Park.

Ramblers, despite last week’s narrow loss to Waterford, have been on a decent run of results recently, with two wins and a draw in their previous four. Wexford, in contrast, have picked up a draw in their last two games, but three previous losses mean that the Cork side are gaining ground on the Youths very quickly indeed.

There have been 71 goals in 21 Ramblers games so far this season (that’s an average of 3.4 goals a game!), and the last time these two sides met Ramblers stuffed three past a hapless Wexford side, with Conor Meade grabbing a brace in his final game for Ramblers before moving to neighbours Waterford United.

Wexford though will be heartened by those two aforementioned draws, against high flying Longford Town and Mervue United, and will be looking to beat the Rams for the first time this season.

Dundalk v Sligo Rovers Preview

By @bit_red

This match is a crucial match for both teams and could be vital at the end of the season. Both teams will be looking to win in order to maintain their respective title chases. Both teams have beaten the other this season with Sligo beating Dundalk 3-1 at the start of the season and Dundalk coming back with a 3-1 win of their own. 

Ticket prices for the match tonight are as follows: Ground - Adults €10, U16s€5  

Stand - Adults €15, Concession €10, U16s €5

Follow the match live on extratime.ie and there are updates on both the clubs official twitter accounts. On radio both Ocean FM and Dundalk FM will have live commentary.

Dundalk: Dundalk will be without the trio of Tiarnan Mulvenna, John Mountney and Keith Ward. Keith Ward is out with a knee injury while Tiarnan Mulvenna is suspended and John Mountney is a doubt with an ankle injury. This is what Stephen Kenny said ahead of the match:

Sligo Rovers: For Sligo Rovers the injuries continue to mount with Ross Gaynor, Iarfhlaith    Davoren and David McMillan all sidelined through injury. And a number of key players are also doubts for the match with Raffaele Cretaro, Evan McMillan, Danny North and Gavin Peers all facing late fitness tests.

Betting: Dundalk 11/5 Draw 11/5 Sligo Rovers 6/5

Stats: Sligo Rovers have won the last two away games against Dundalk and if Sligo Rovers win tonight that will make it three in a row and a first for Rovers. Dundalk will be looking to make it back to back wins over Rovers for the first time since 1991 when they won 1-0 in the Showgrounds before winning again in Sligo in November 2-1.I n the last 10 games Sligo Rovers have only lost once against Dundalk along with eight wins and two draws and they managed to score 24 goals during these matches.

Prediction: Dundalk 1 - 1 Sligo Rovers

St. Patrick’s Athletic v Shelbourne (16-8-13)

By Aidan Geraghty @1895Aidan 

PREVIEW

Title-chasing Pat’s welcome relegation-battling Shels across the river on Friday night as they hope to pick up their third victory of the season over their fierce rivals. Ironically, the last time Pats were chasing the title, in 2002, they were beaten to the post by Shelbourne who won their 10^th championship that season. The Reds went on to win 3 more over the next 4 years while Saints fans saw a rebuild under the tutelage of current Shels manager Johnny McDonnell.

            Thankfully for the Southside’s team in red, the tables have turned and Shelbourne, who spent five years in the second-tier, are in rebuilding mode while Pat’s are chasing their first trophy since 1999. After not beating the Reds for 10 years, the Saints finally ended the drought with a 1-0 win in June of last year and they have had the upper-hand since; winning every game in which the two teams have played each other. However, there is still a bitter taste in the mouths of Saints fans because they were knocked out of the FAI Cup Semi-Final by the Reds in 2011 to extend their cup-drought to 50 years (now 51 years).

            The league-leaders have been celebrating all week after a 4-0 demolition of their other major rivals, Shamrock Rovers, last Friday night. Former Redsman Conan Byrne scored all four goals against 9-man Rovers. Shelbourne fans won’t be in such high spirits, though, as they were on the wrong side of a 2-1 scoreline at home to Dundalk. There were some positives though, as Shels controlled the second half and almost snatched a draw.

TEAM NEWS

St. Patrick’s Athletic injuries: Shane McFaul (groin).

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: John Russell (four yellow cards).

Shelbourne injuries: Paul Crowley (hip), Mark Leech (ankle), Jack Memery, Robert Bayly.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: Pat Flynn (four yellow cards).

BETTING

St Patrick’s Athletic: 2/7.

Draw: 7/2.

Shelbourne: 11/1.

PREDICTION

Pat’s 2-1 Shels

PATS THE MAN

Inspired Paterson down’s Russians as O’Neill drought is over

 

 

 

Northern Ireland 1-0 Russia, Windsor Park, Wednesday 15th August 2013 -  @jp_fahy reports

Martin Paterson’s header on the stroke of half-time was enough to see Northern Ireland beat Russia and claim their first victory under manager Michael O’Neill at the ninth attempt; Paterson was in inspired form leading the line alongside Derby striker Jamie Ward as both of them with the help of Shane Ferguson and Niall McGinn on the wings caused problems for the Russian defence all night.

 

This game was originally scheduled for February but a snow covered pitch at Windsor Park prevented it from going ahead and in the lead up to that game Russia manager Fabio Capello claimed it was misinterpreted when he said it was “Only Northern Ireland”. From the first whistle it was quite clear those words were still in the minds of the home side as they took the game to their visitors.
 

Jamie Ward had a chance in the first 30 seconds but his effort was miscued and easily gathered by Russian keeper Akinfeev, a minute later former Derry City winger Niall McGinn tried his luck with a volley that just flew over. Moments later Northern Ireland were on the attack again, first of all Paterson thought he was in but was penalised for a studs up which seemed very harsh but the Huddersfield Town man had his first effort of the game less than a minute later which was straight at Akinfeev.  The Russian was certainly not expecting to be this busy in the 90 minutes never mind the first five minutes and would’ve been grateful to see his team mates creating chances at the other end as Kerzhakov had an effort blocked by Gareth McAuley at the centre of the home defence.

 

By this stage the Russians were beginning to grow into the game and continued to come at the home side and on eleven minutes there was a few half-hearted appeals for handball against Roy Carroll as the goalkeeper came sliding out to cut out the danger but he easily released before his momentum took him outside his area.  Northern Ireland were struggling to get a hold of the ball as the Russians began knocking it about on the ground but were failing to find a way through a defence well marshalled by McAuley as he cut out yet another ball meant Dzagoev whilst Kerzhakov was also feeding off scraps.
 

The home sides good work for the first half hour was almost undone as Viktor Fayzulin burst through he was clipped by Oliver Norwood but the Zenit St Petersburg midfielder choose to remain on his feet and attempt a cross which came to nothing, at that point he may have been regretful by not going down but credit for staying on his feet.  This was the Russian’s best period of the game but all their pressure and build up play was easily dealt with by the home side that were defending for the lives and not allowing their visitors anything cheap.
 

As the first half drove to a close the home side almost took the lead, captain Steven Davis was judged to have been fouled in the centre circle; former Derry City left back Danny Lafferty’s quick thinking found Ward who drove at the Russian defence he let fly from 20 yards only to see his effort crash off the post. As the ball rebounded Paterson was alive to it but slipped at the vital moment and Akinfeev gathered easily.
 

However Paterson did not have to wait long for his next chance, and two minutes from half time he took it; a great ball over the top from Aaron Hughes found Niall McGinn on the chase as the Russians appealed for offside, McGinn’s first time cross was met by the head of Paterson to glance past Akinfeev who had no chance. It was enough to give the home side a half-time lead that they richly deserved and set themselves up for a big second half.
 

H/T Northern Ireland 1-0 Russia (Paterson, 43)
 

Northern Ireland’s first half dominance was enough to force Capello into two changes as he brought on Real Madrid winger Demtri Cheryshev for Dzagoev and whilst FC Rostov target man Artyom Dzubya replaced the disappointing Kerzhakov.

 

 

The changes made a bit of difference especially Cheryshev who was causing problems for Aaron Hughes he dribbled past the Fulham defender only to be dispossessed at the last minute; on 51 minutes the Russians had a dangerous free-kick on the edge of the box but Shirokov tried to place around the wall to no avail. A minute later the so far impressive Cheryshev was replaced by Samedov after he appeared to pick up a mysterious injury after an innocent collision with Aaron Hughes, who must have been delighted to see him go off so soon after coming on.

 

 

From that moment on Capello must have known it wasn’t going to be a pretty night for him as that was his third and final change, but he must also have thought his luck was changing a few minutes later when he saw the flag go up for offside when Paterson had the ball in the night for a second time. McAuley headed Norwood’s cross back across goal for the striker to head home; McAuley was furious and rightly so as replays showed that Paterson was well onside.
 

With 20 minutes left Northern Ireland supporters must’ve been worried when they saw the outstanding McAuley down but after having treatment he was ok to continue much to the relief of all involved with the home side. On 74 minutes Paterson had another chance as he challenged the keeper for a cross, Akinfeev spilled the ball and Paterson had a swing but caught the keeper and was penalised with a free-kick and also booked after a confrontation with Berezutski who also got booked.
 

As full-time approached Michael O’Neill finally decided to change, opting to perhaps play more defensive as he replaced the impressive Niall McGinn with Corry Evans and man of the match Martin Paterson who went off to a standing ovation was replaced by Will Gregg; the referee added four minutes of injury but Russia were unable to conjure up anything and finally O’Neill has his first win as Northern Ireland manager.
 

F/T Northern Ireland 1-0 Russia (Paterson, 43)
 

Teams:
 

Northern Ireland: Roy Carroll, Danny Lafferty, Gareth McAuley, Craig Cathcart, Aaron Hughes, Shane Ferguson, Steven Davis, Oliver Norwood, Niall McGinn (Corry Evans, 82), Martin Paterson (Will Grigg, 86) Jamie Ward

 

 

Russia: Akinfeev, Aniukov, Ignashevich, Berezutsky, Denisov, Dzagoev (Cheryshev – 45, Samedov 53), Shirokov, Bystrov, Faitzulin,  Kombarov,  Kerzhakov (Dzjuba – 46)
 

Goals: Martin Paterson

 

 

Booked: Danny Lafferty (misses next game), Martin Paterson, Berezutsky (misses next game)
 

ATT: 11,805



 

 



Barclays Premier League preview- Arsenal

Having secured Champions League football for the 16th season in a row, Arsenal enter the new season with practically the same squad, but have been linked heavily with Luis Suarez over the summer months. It would seem that Arsene Wenger has a lot of money to spend, but has yet to do so.
It is over 3000 days since the North London club won a trophy, a fact which opposition fans take delight in. Could this be the year that all changes?

Last Season

Having sold Robin Van Persie and Alex Song, Wenger brought in Santi Cazorla, Olivier Giroud and Lukas Podolski to help provide goals. They started off well, beating Liverpool in Anfield, thumping Southampton 6-1 and taking a draw from the Etihad Stadium in their first 6 games. Four straight  league wins in December made up somewhat for an embarrasing League Cup exit to 4th-tier Bradford City. The Gunners put on a superb run of form, losing only once in their last 16 league games, but needed to better Tottenham's result on the last day, to qualify for Europe's premier competition once again. Laurent Koscielny's header was enough to do so. Arsenal were also one of  only two teams able to beat Bayern Munich in the 2012-2013 season, but they still exited the Champions League to the Germans, who would go on to win the tournament.

Top scorer : Theo Walcott (21 goals)
Fan's Player of the Season : Santi Cazorla
League Position: 4th
League Cup: Quarter- Finals
FA Cup: 5th Round
Champions League: Last 16

The Gaffer : Arsene Wenger

The Frenchman will take control of Arsenal for the 18th season in a row, after coming under pressure from fans last season. In his time at Arsenal, he has delivered 3 Premier League titles, 4 FA Cup's, and 4 Community Shield's. But after so long without a trophy, most clubc would have sacked their manager. The Arsenal board have stuck by him though, as he has brought Champions League football to North London for 16 consecutive seasons. Will that be enough to keep his job this season?

Key Player: Mikel Arteta

The midfielder was an internal cog in Arsenal's machine last season, scoring 6 goals, and completing more passes than any other Premier League player (stats courtesy of Opta). The Spainard is a leader on and off the field, and if he can repeat his strong performances from last season then Arsenal could push for the silverware that has deserted them so long.

One To Watch : Alex Oxlaide-Chamberlain

After impressing in his first season, the Ox was surprisingly flat in last year's campaign. Pundits are expecting great things from the 20-year old. Over the summer he was called up to the England squad, and emulated his father Mark, by playing against Brazil in the Maracana. He scored against the Samba stars in England's 2-2 draw, which will have done his confidence the world of good.

Transfers In

Yaya Sanogo (Free transfer from Auxerre)

Transfers Out

Denilson, Andrei Arshavin, Sebastian Squillaci, (frees),
Gervinho (8 million to Roma),
Andre Santos (undisclosed fee to Flamengo),
Marouanne Chamakh (undisclosed, to Crystal Palace)
Vito Mannone (undisclosed to Sunderland)

First Six Fixtures: Aston Villa (H), Fulham (A), Spurs ( H), Sunderland (A), Stoke (H), Swansea (A)

Prediction: The squad from last season should be good enough to bag European Football again, but it all depends on one man. If Gareth Bale stays with Tottenham, then the Gunners could be in trouble 5th.

FAI Cup 3rd Round Fixtures confirmed

3rd Round Fixtures announced with biggest surprise being that non league Bluebell have conceded home advantage to Derry City

The FAI has confirmed the dates and venues for the 3rd round fixtures of the FAI Ford Cup with Bluebell United conceding home advantage to cup holders Derry City in a surprise revelation.

 

It is unknown why this is the case but some people have speculated that Bluebell have set their sights on a 'pad day' by moving the match to the Brandywell rather than staging it in their own Capco Park home; the game will take place on Friday 23rd August with a 7:45pm kick-off, with the replay scheduled to take also place at the Brandywell on Tuesday August 27th with a 7:45pm kick-off.

 

The other seven fixtures will also take place on the same weekend with just the two games taken place on Saturday 24th.

 

Longford Town welcome Premier Division Drogheda United to the City Calling Stadium with a 7:30pm kick-off, whilst Cork City make the trip to the Showgrounds to take on Sligo Rovers with a 7:45pm kick-off.

 

Replay dates have also been set for seven of the eight fixtures with the odd one out being Shelbourne's tie with College Corinthians yet to be confirmed, however the original tie will take place at Tolka Park on Friday 23rd August with an 8pm kick-off.

 

FAI Ford Cup 2013, 3rd Fixture & replay schedule

Friday, August 23:
Bluebell United v Derry City Brandywell Stadium 7.45pm. (Replay: Tuesday, August 27, Brandywell Stadium 7.45pm)

Bray Wanderers v St. Patrick's Athletic Carlisle Grounds 7.45pm. (Replay: Monday, August 26, Richmond Park 7.45pm)

Dundalk v Limerick Oriel Park 7.45pm. (Replay: Monday, August 26, Thomond Park 7.45pm)

Finn Harps v Cobh Ramblers Finn Park 8pm. (Replay: Monday, August 26, St. Colman's Park 8pm)

Shamrock Rovers v Sheriff YC, Tallaght Stadium, 8pm. (Replay: Monday, August 26, Tolka Park, 7.45pm)

Shelbourne v College Corinthians Tolka Park 8pm. (Replay: TBC)

Saturday, August 24:

Longford Town v Drogheda United City Calling Stadium 7.30pm. (Replay: Tuesday, August 27, Hunky Dorys Park, 7.45pm)

Sligo Rovers v Cork City The Showgrounds 7.45pm. (Replay: Tuesday, August 27, Turner's Cross, 7.45pm).

Dundalk Triumph away to Shels

Dundalk kept their title hopes alive with a 2-1 away win over Shelbourne in Tolka Park.

Goals from centre back pairing of Andy Boyle & Brian Gartland in the first 15 minutes  secured the three points for the Louth side despite Shels late effort of a comeback with Graham Gartlands goal for Shels late on giving Dundalk a nervy last few minutes for the travelling men.

After the second minute  Andy Boyle met the end of Darren Meenans corner as he headed past Lee Murphy to put the Lilywhites 1-0 up.

A minute later Dundalk captain burst through the Shels defence and was taken down by  Graham Gartland insie the box leaving the referee wth only one choice but to award the penalty. John Dillon stepped up to take the penalty, However keeper Lee Murphy saved well and got rid of it.

After 15 minutes Darren Meenan provided  another assist as his cross got to Brian Gartland who lashed it into the net leaving Lee Murphy  with no chance to put Dundalk 2 goals to the good.

Sports witers of the month Pat Hoban had a chance as before half time before Shels got their first chances of the game coming from both Derek Doyle and Stephen Hurley although neither troubled Cherrie too much with Doyle firing just wide and Hurley shooting from 25 yards but it went straight at the big scot net minder Peter Cherrie.

Half time came just after with Dundalk going in Two nil up.

Dundalk came out the second half without a real penetration behind them and didn't look in increase that lead they had as Shels came at them.

Just on the 70th minute Sean Brennan caught the ball sweetly and volleyed which was going straight to the top hand corner,which Peter Cherrie somehow got his hand to it to push it wide for a corner.
You could sense a Shels goal was coming through as teh corner came there was nothing Cherrie could do as Graham Gartland got to the end of it and hit it straight past Cherrie to leave Shels with a hope of a comeback.

Dundalk held on though for a 2-1 win to continue their great form and keeping on the leaders Pats heels.

SHELBOURNE: Lee Murphy; Pat Flynn (Darren Tinnelly 83), Ian Ryan, Graham Gartland, Derek Doyle; Adam Hanlon, Glenn Cronin, Stephen Hurley (Brian Gannon 69), Sean Brennan; Lee Murtagh (Robert Cornwall 45), Dean Kelly.
Subs not used: Niall Burdon, Carl Walshe, Paul Andrews, Gareth O’Connor.
Booked: Gartland (4), Flynn (25), Cornwall (82), Gannon (77).

DUNDALK: Peter Cherrie; Mark Rossiter, Brian Gartland, Andy Boyle, Chris Shields; John Dillon (Jordan Keegan 71), Stephen O’Donnell, Richie Towell, Darren Meenan (Dane Massey 84); Kurtis Byrne (Francis McCaffrey 67), Pat Hoban.

Subs not used: Aaron Shanahan, John Sullivan, Vinny Faherty, Tiarnan Mulvenna.

Booked: Dillon (67).Referee: Padraigh Sutton

City back to winning ways with victory at UCD

John-Paul Fahy reports
@jp_fahy 

Declan Devine very much got the response he demanded from his players after they came away from the Belfield Bowl with all three points; Devine was angry with his players after the showing against Drogheda on Monday night and read them the riot act during the week which very much paid off. Two goals from Rory Patterson and a second half strike from Michael Duffy was enough to give the candystripes a 3-1 victory after Samir Belhout had halved City’s half-time lead.

It was a quick opening to the game with Rory Patterson having two good early chances to fire the visitors in front but he failed with both attempts while Cillian Morrison struck wide for the home side. However it was the Candystripes that would control the early stages and Ruaidhri Higgins who had the games next chance when he headed a Paddy Kavanagh corner over the bar from 15 yards whilst McDaid who’s already got three goals since his return had a chance to add to that tally but also failed to test McGinley.

Shortly after the half hour mark Derry would really take control of the game as the league’s top marksman struck twice in two minutes to give the visitor’s a 2-0 lead; Michael Duffy’s through ball opened up the UCD defence, Patterson latched on to it before slotting past McGinley in the UCD goal. Patterson wasn’t long finished celebrating his first until he was celebrating his second, good work from Paddy Kavanagh down the right saw the Dubliner pull it back to the near post where Patterson was on hand to make it 2-0 and claim his 16^th league goal of the season.

However Derry had Gerard Doherty to thank for going in two goals to the good, on the stroke of half-time a free-kick was whipped into the Derry box Michael Leahy got on to the end of it and only for great reactions from Doherty then it would’ve been 2-1. Doherty showing that he’s still got it after taking a lot of stick recently.

H/T – UCD 0-2 Derry City (Patterson, 34,36)

Martin Russell brought Samir Belhout on at half-time and the strikers impact was there to be seen as nine minutes into the second half he got the students back into the game; after some nifty footwork and a mistake from Eoghan Osborne he managed to find a yard of space before drilling past Doherty to make it 2-1. This was the instigator for UCD as they pushed forward with intent in levelling the game at 2-2, moments later Craig Walsh was bursting through only to see his effort pushed round the post by Doherty.

On the hour mark Derry restored their two goal lead through Michael Duffy; a superb pass from Higgins found Simon Madden free on the right hand side, whose first time cross found Duffy at the back post who swept the ball home.

This wasn’t to dishearten UCD who continued to push forward in search of more goals but the Derry defence stood strong to see out the result and keep themselves in touch with the leaders in what was a much needed victory for the Candystripes.

F/T - (Belhout 54) UCD 1-3 Derry City (Patterson 34,36; Duffy 60)

UCD: Mark McGinley; Hugh Douglas (Tomas Boyle 66), Michael Leahy, David O'Connor, Gareth Matthews; Cillian Morrison, Robbie Creevy (Barry McCabe 69), Craig Walsh, Michael Kelly (Samir Belhout h/t), Sean Russell; Dean Clarke.

Subs: Ger Barron, Ayman Ben Mohamed, Gary Burke, Thomas O’Halloran.

Booked: Douglas.

Derry City: Ger Doherty; Simon Madden, Shane McEleney, Ryan McBride, Eoghan Osborne; Paddy Kavanagh, Ruaidhri Higgins, Patrick McEleney, Michael Duffy (Barry McNamee 89); David McDaid (Sean Houston 74), Rory Patterson.

Subs: Eugene Ferry, Barry Molloy, Mark Griffin, Thomas Crawley, Ryan Curran.

Booked: Shane McEleney, Sean Houston.

Referee: Neil Doyle. 

Sligo Rovers vs Bray Wanderers Match Preview. Saturday, August 10th, 2013.

Sligo Rovers play host to Bray Wanderers at The Showgrounds this Saturday, August 10th. The reigning champions will be looking to close the gap on current league leaders St. Patrick's Athletic.

Sligo will head into this feeling confident as favourites. From their two meetings so far this campaign, Rovers have come through having taken 4 points from 6 available against Bray, having beaten them 3-0 at home in March and being held to a scoreless draw in the return fixture in the Carlisle Grounds two months later.

The home side head into the game full of confidence following their recent 2-1 away win against Derry City thanks to goals from David Cawley and Danny North. This win in Derry spelled the end of three consecutive games without victory and other than this win in the Brandywell, the Bit o' Red's recent league form has been less than convincing having only won one of the last four games, and three of the last six.

With this in mind, the home side will no doubt be looking to take advantage of their visitor's fragile defence which has leaked 49 goals in the league this season, only three less than the leagues worst defence which is UCD. This is a worry for Bray as Sligo have the ability to score goals from anywhere on the pitch, with 14 of the 20 players who have played this season having scored at some stage so far meaning they have more goalscorers than any other side this season.

Rover's key man in this fixture could very likely prove to be striker Danny North, who certainly knows how to find the net and more so than ever when he faces the Seagulls, with 7 of his 37 goals in the League of Ireland coming against the Wanderers, a higher return than against any other club.

Bray travel to the Showgrounds with a less than impressive run of form themselves, having seen their best form of the season come to a emphatic end with no win from their last seven games. The last time they picked up all three points was in a crazy nine-goal-thriller in which they came out as 5-4 winners over relegation rivals UCD. Since they last won, they have drawn three and lost four.

Pat Devlin will be happy that he has a full squad to choose from bar one, with Ismahil Akinade being the only absentee through suspension for his sides trip west. Shane O'Connor returns to the side having missed the last two games.

Devlin says that the attitude in the Bray camp is good, but admitted that they will need an element of luck to come out of the game on Saturday with a positive result when speaking to braywanderers.ie.

"We are looking forward to going to the Showgrounds, our attitude to date has been very good and our play has been good. We need to polish up on a few things and hope we get the breaks," said Devlin.

Betting odds courtesy of Paddy Power:

Sligo Rovers - 1/4
Draw - 9/2
Bray Wanderers - 9/1

Danny North first goalscorer and Sligo Rovers to win 3-0 - 16/1

Follow Conor Clancy on Twitter: @conorclancy9

LEAGUE OF IRELAND- Massive game in Cork, as Bohs visit Turner's Cross

Stuart Ashton takes charge of his first league game tonight, as Cork City entertain Bohemians with 3 crucial points on offer to both sides.

The Rebel Army
Last week's 2-1 defeat in Thomond Park was the last straw for Tommy Dunne, who parted company with the club the morning after. It was Cork's 6th league defeat in the last 8 outings. Ashton has already been in charge of the FAI Cup win over Kilbarrack United on Monday. He is best known for being the manager of Cork's U19's ''Double-Double'' in league and cup over the last 2 seasons.

Defeat for the Leesiders tonight, coupled with other results, could leave the Munster side just 1 point off the relegation playoff.
Speaking to www.corkcityfc.ie, First Team Coach Billy Woods said that he is hoping for a large crowd and a good performance tomorrow night:

“Obviously since Owen Heary has come in, Bohs have had some good performances.  They beat Bray, drew with Drogheda and were very unfortunate to lose to UCD last week. It will be a very tough game for us, but at this point in the season we need to start winning games. We are looking for a big performance from our players in front of what will be hopefully be a good crowd.”

Colin Healy has returned from a knee injury, but there are doubts over the availability of Ian Turner, John Dunleavy and Neal Horgan. Darren Dennehy, Kevin Burns and Kevin Murray are definitely ruled out. Kalen Spillane serves the last game of his suspension , Daryl Horgan the first of his.

The Gypsies
Bohs are looking to recover from a poor performance last Friday, where they were defeated by UCD 3-1, despite having taken the lead. It put a 4 point gap between the sides. Bohemians sit bottom of the Premier Division, 2 points off nearest rivals Shelbourne and Bray Wanderers, a win tonight would see them move off the bottom temporarily.

Manager Owen Heary scored in this fixture in the second weekend of the season, and speaking to www.bohemiansfc.com  he took hope from his team’s performance. “We created chances, we got a lot of bodies forward, and UCD never threatened us in open play. We scored early on, we were in control of the game, and we had another chance soon afterwards. If we had got the goal later to go 2-all, I’m sure we would have gone on and won the game.”

Heary is confident his players’ efforts will yield results. “The fans could see last week that the players are working hard and playing for the shirt. We have to play to win,”

Midfielders Dave Mulcahy and Ryan McEvoy return from injury but Chris Lyons (bruised ribs), Andy Mulligan (hamstring), Stephen Doran (ankle) and Keith Buckley (suspended) are not available.

Stats:
In both games between the teams this season so far, Bohemians have gone 1-0 up, but then lost 2-1.

Should City win tonight, they will complete a clean sweep over the Phibsboro club, the first since 2005.

On average this fixture produces 2 goals per game

Bohemians's last win in Turner's Cross was in 2009

Prediction: Pressure on both managers, the crowd should help Cork to the victory. Sticking with the score of Cork City 2-1 Bohemians