Waterford FC face another difficult test in the SSE Airtricity Premier Division this evening when they travel to Richmond Park to take on St Patrick’s Athletic.
The game gets underway at 7.45 pm, with Waterford looking to continue their impressive run of form under manager Graeme Coughlan.
The Blues have gone unbeaten in their last nine games, including seven league fixtures, with victories over Dundalk, Derry City, Shelbourne and Bohemians among their recent results. They have also progressed in two knockout competitions during that run.
Their momentum was checked slightly last weekend when they were held to a goalless draw away to Sligo Rovers, but tonight represents another opportunity to show just how far they have progressed under Coughlan.
Former Waterford and St Patrick’s Athletic player Pascal Keane believes the Blues can approach the game as something of a free hit, given St Pat’s position towards the top end of the table.
St Pat’s are also in excellent form, having gone unbeaten in their last eight league games. Stephen Kenny’s side recorded a 2-0 victory away to Drogheda United last Friday and remain firmly in the title race.
Waterford know exactly how difficult the challenge will be. The sides met in Inchicore earlier in the season, when the Saints came from behind to record a 4-1 victory. Waterford had taken an early lead before a penalty just before half-time changed the momentum of the game.
The Blues have since undergone a significant transformation under Coughlan, with players such as Benny Couto and Evan McLaughlin playing important roles during the unbeaten run.
Keane believes Waterford will need to be disciplined without the ball, while making the most of their opportunities when possession does come their way.
St Pat’s possess quality throughout their squad, with the likes of Forrester, Edmondson, Levy and Barry Bagley capable of causing problems.
Waterford will also need to be wary of giving away cheap possession. Against a side with St Pat’s quality, mistakes in dangerous areas could prove costly.
However, the Blues have shown repeatedly in recent months that they are capable of competing against the league’s better sides.
A strong defensive performance, combined with Waterford’s energy and pace in attack, could allow them to come away from Inchicore with a valuable result.
With both sides entering the game in strong form, it promises to be a fascinating contest in the capital.
St Patrick’s Athletic v Waterford FC – 7.45pm
Live commentary on WLR with Ray Scott and Tommy Griffin, with team news from Richmond Park before throw-in.
Waterford FC Coverage on WLR is thanks to John Murphy Carpets
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