MATCH PREVIEW: Longford Town v Cabinteely

Match Preview by Kieran Burke

Unbeaten in four of the five opening First Division games this season, Longford Town will be looking to continue their good start to the campaign with a home win against Dublin based Cabinteely.

The Stradbrook outfit come into this away tie off the back of a shock 3-2 win against free-scoring Drogheda United. Former Shamrock Rovers and Bray Wanderers star, Kieran ‘’Marty’’ Waters is the main man in Pat Devlin’s ‘’Cabo’’ team and the diminutive forward got his season up and running with a goal just five minutes into that triumph over the County Louth side. Midfielder, Stephen Ball bagged himself a brace and he will have to be closely marshaled by Dean Zambra and co on Saturday night at the City Calling Stadium.

Local lad, Aodh Dervin was the top performer in ‘’De Town’s’’ fine away performance in Galway last Friday night, as the Midlanders claimed a valuable point thanks to a scoreless draw at Eamon Deacy Park. However, had Longford’s finishing been sharper, especially in the second half with the likes of Sam Verdon and Chris Mulhall missing glorious one on one opportunities, Neale Fenn’s charges could have left the West with all three points.

Local lad Aodh Dervin, hoping to have another influential game for Town.

Despite the missed chances, Neale Fenn and his coaching staff will be extremely delighted with the efforts at the back with Mick McDonnell again standing out for the ‘’Red and Black’’. The towering centre-half, who is experiencing his first ever League of Ireland season having signed from Paul Perth’s Newbridge Town, has been a fine addition alongside last seasons team of the year member, Dan O’Reilly. Throw in the eye-catching displays from new shot-stopper Mick Kelly, who of course played for Cabinteely last season, and Neale Fenn will be hopefully of a third clean sheet of the season on Saturday night.

Town custodian, Mick Kelly, who could be facing his old side, Cabinteely on Saturday

Target man, Chris Mulhall will collect his Supporters Club Player of the Month award before the Cabinteely game and should he replicate his scoring form from the recent meetings with Athlone Town and Wexford FC, there’s a very good chance the home faithful will leave City Calling Stadium happy on Saturday night. Kick-off at the Strokestown Road venue is 7.30pm with admission just €10 for adults, €8 for students/OAPS and €5 for children under 12. Bring a friend!

LONGFORD TOWN TEAM NEWS

Injured: Darren Meenan (hamstring), Alan Kehoe (ankle)

SUSPENSION NEWS

Dylan McGlade is still serving a 3 game ban following his sending off v Shelbourne.