- Josh Dolan
- Sat, Mar 15 2014
LONGFORD TOWN
Longford begin their 2014 Home League campaign against Johnny McDonnell’s Shelbourne.
The Town come into the game on the back of a hard fought 1-0 over newly founded Galway FC, in which David O’Sullivan snatched the winner.
The game will see home league debuts for new signings, such as Stephen Rice and Pat Sullivan who have both joined from Shamrock Rovers, while ex red Pat Flynn will face his former employers for the first time.
Town boss, Tony Cousins goes into the game without Mark Salmon who is sidelined through injury, while Mark Salmon misses out through suspension
SHELBOURNE
Shels come into the game on the back of a defeat to Bray Wanderers, in The EA Sports Cup in midweek. The teams were level at the break, but a brace from Darren Tinnelly simply wasn’t enough as The Reds were dumped out of The EA Sports Cup.
Despite the disappointment of the midweek cup exit Shels do come into the game having won their opening league fixture, with Wexford Youths, as 2 late goals from Philly Hand and Dylan Connolly gave The Reds their opening night victory.
Shels boss, Johnny McDonnell has taken advantage of his First Winter window at the helm, by bringing a number of experienced faces to Tolka Park, such as Willo McDonagh and Philly Hand, while a number of the potential Under 19 League Winning side have made the step up to First Team Level.
Johnny McDonnell will be without new boys, John Sullivan and Robbie Gaul who are both injured, while, young defender, Adam O’Connor misses the trip through suspension.
Referee: Robert Harvey
MATCH STATS
It will be the First occasion, in which the two have met in the league, since Shels were promoted in 2011.
Shels haven’t won away from Tolka Park, since beating UCD 2-1 in July of 2013.
Longford conceded 18 goals at home last season, more than any other side in the top 6 of The 2013 First Division.
BETTING
Longford 5/6 Draw 5/2 Shelbourne 7/2
PREDICTION
2-1 Win for The Town.
Longford Town:
Injured: Mark Salmon.
Suspended: Noel Haverty.
Shelbourne:
Injured: Robbie Gaul, John Sullivan.
Suspended: None.
