Limerick FC on the road again in search of a vital win against St. Patricks Athletic

Limerick travel to Richmond Park on Saturday evening in search of a massive three points against St. Patricks Athletic which would be a huge step towards premier division safety (kick-off 5pm). It is a game of huge significance for both clubs as there are just two points separating Limerick in seventh and their hosts in eight.

It is so tight at the bottom of the premier division. Following confirmation of Drogheda’s relegation last week, there are five clubs still fighting for survival with only five points separating them. Although Limerick are in the strongest position, the Shannonsiders cannot afford to take anything for granted in what has been a crazy league season. St. Patrick Athletic often boast about never being relegated, but the Inchicore outfit certainly have work to do in order for that to continue into 2018.

Limerick are back to league action having narrowly lost out to league leaders Cork City in the Irish Daily Mail FAI Cup semi-final last Friday night. An early Garry Buckley strike was enough to give the Leesiders victory. However, Limerick gave a good account of themselves in Turner’s Cross in front of a big travelling support. Rodrigo Tosi and Chiedozie Ogbene had the best chances for Neil McDonald’s men who fell just short.

The Markets Field outfit have picked up four points from six in their last two games with a draw away at Bray Wanderers and a superb 2-1 victory over runaway league leaders Cork. Manager Neil McDonald is hoping that his side can carry their recent good form into the all important clash.

“Our league form isn’t too bad. We have to go into the game still trying to do the things we’ve done against Cork in the two games, which is attack really well, create chances, and defend as well as we have. If we do that then hopefully we’ll come out with some points on the board.”

The Limerick boss is surprised by the position that Saturday’s opponents are in as he was impressed with Liam Buckleys team when the two teams drew 2-2 at the Markets Field.

“St Pat’s have obviously got a very, very good team. They have some excellent players and the way they play their football is excellent as well. I’m quite surprised to see where they are in the league. I thought that they were one of the better teams that we’ve played this season, since I’ve been here. But they are where they are because of certain reasons and we have to make sure that we keep them below us by picking up a result.”

Limerick centre-back Tony Whitehead has had a breakthrough season in the blue and white, featuring in the majority of the Super Blues league games with many different central defensive partners. However, there are signs that the partnership with Dave O’Connor has steadied what McDonald considered a previously leaky defence.

The Charleville native scored his first Limerick FC goal in a 0-2 away win at St. Pats in April and is aware of the improvements Pats have made since then.

“It was a great win up there the last time. Looking at the table now it was a big three points. Personally, I waited five years to score a goal so it was a nice moment for me. But more importantly we got the three points and hopefully we can repeat it on Saturday. St Pat’s work very hard. They’re a good side and they’re on a good run at the moment.”

Limerick have no fresh injuries or suspensions to deal with heading into the game. The supporters will be hoping that Bastian Henry can keep up his recent good form. The Frenchman has put in some super performances in recent weeks, leading to him being in contention for the October player of the month prize. Furthermore, Limerick will need Rodrigo Tosi, Chiedozie Ogbene and Lee- J Lynch to play well in the attacking third to gain victory.

St. Pats come into the game off the back of a 2-0 win over Dublin rivals Shamrock Rovers last week. Former Limerick midfielder Paul O’Connor was among the scorers.

The Saints will be without Darren Denney for the game. However, experienced centre back Gavin Peers returns from suspension. Saints boss Liam Buckley is expecting a tough challenge on Saturday.

“Last week we saw Limerick’s defeat to Cork and they were a little unlucky to lose. They have picked up a few results lately so we’re expecting a tough challenge. In the games between ourselves this season, there’s been very little between us so we expect the same on Saturday.”

Referee: Derek Tomney
Venue: Richmond Park