As the 2024 League of Ireland Premier Division season approaches its climax, Waterford United will host relegation-threatened Drogheda United on Friday evening in a crucial clash for both teams.
Match Overview
Waterford United, currently sitting seventh in the table, are 11 points clear of the relegation zone with only 12 points left to play for. Their first season back in the top flight after relegation in 2021 has been satisfactory, but recent form has been concerning, with only two wins in their last nine league matches. Manager Keith Long will be looking for his side to secure at least a point to confirm their place in the Premier Division for next season, especially after a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Drogheda earlier in the season.
Drogheda United, on the other hand, are in the midst of a remarkable turnaround after a difficult start to the season. They are now one of the most in-form teams in the division, having lost just one of their last 14 matches across all competitions. With four wins and three draws from their last eight league fixtures, they have significantly improved their position, trailing eighth-placed Bohemians by only four points. Manager Kevin Doherty’s side will be eager to keep their momentum going as they strive to avoid relegation.
Recent Form
-Waterford United League Form:
– 2-1 loss to Galway United
– 0-2 loss to Drogheda United (previous meeting)
– Recent record: 2 wins, 5 losses, 2 draws in last nine league matches.
– Drogheda United League Form:
– 2-1 victory against Derry City
– Recent record: 4 wins, 3 draws, 1 loss in last eight league matches.
Team News
Waterford United:
Waterford will likely be without Kacper Skwierczynski and Kyle White, although both players could return before the end of the season. Manager Keith Long is expected to maintain a similar lineup to the one that narrowly lost to Galway, with top scorer Padraig Amond leading the attack.
Drogheda United:
Drogheda will miss Jethren Barr, Matthew O’Brien, and Steve Bawa due to injury concerns. Given their strong recent performances, Doherty may stick with the same squad that secured the victory over Derry City.
Possible Lineups
Waterford United:
– Goalkeeper: Sargeant
– Defenders: Power, Horton, Leahy, Radkowski, Burke
– Midfielders: McMenamy, McDonald, Baggley
– Forwards: Bellis, Amond
Drogheda United:
– Goalkeeper: Dennison
– Defenders: Quinn, Webster, Bolger
– Midfielders: Ahui, Brennan, Farrell, Kane
– Forwards: Markey, James-Taylor, Pierrot
