Waterford vs Shelbourne predictions for this Irish Premier Division clash. Waterford United host league leaders Shelbourne at Waterford Regional Sports Centre on Wednesday, featuring the two most in-form League of Ireland Premier Division teams. Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.
League of Ireland Premier | Jun 13, 2024 at 7.45pm UK at Waterford Regional Sports Centre
Don’t Have a William Hill account? Click below to claim this offer👇
Waterford United vs Shelbourne Predictions
Waterford Host League Leaders Shelbourne in High-Stakes Encounter
Key Stats
– Waterford have won six of their last eight matches, showcasing a remarkable turnaround.
– Shelbourne boast the best away record in the league, securing 19 points from ten games.
– Will Jarvis has scored seven goals this season, making him a key threat for Shelbourne.
On Wednesday evening, Waterford United will host league leaders Shelbourne at the Waterford Regional Sports Centre in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. Both teams come into this match in excellent form, with Waterford sitting fourth in the league and Shelbourne leading the pack. This game is crucial for both sides as they aim to maintain their impressive runs and secure vital points.
Waterford’s Season So Far
Waterford United have exceeded expectations in their first season back in the Irish top flight after a two-year stint in the First Division. Initially struggling with just three wins in their first 12 matches, Waterford found themselves languishing in eighth place. However, a remarkable turnaround has seen them climb up the table, currently sitting joint third with Shamrock Rovers on points after 20 fixtures.
Keith Long’s side has been particularly impressive in recent weeks, winning six of their last eight matches. This surge has made them one of the most in-form teams in the division. Their home form has been a significant factor, with 17 of their 31 points coming from games played at the Waterford Regional Sports Centre.
Shelbourne’s Dominance
Shelbourne, on the other hand, have been a revelation this season. After returning to the Premier Division in 2022 and securing seventh and fourth-place finishes, they now find themselves at the top of the table after 21 matches. Damien Duff’s men started the season with a nine-game unbeaten run, including six victories. Despite a brief wobble in April, Shelbourne quickly regained their composure and have continued to dominate, with only one loss in their last ten league games.
Shelbourne have excelled on the road, securing 19 points from ten away games—the best record in the division. Their ability to perform under pressure away from home will be crucial as they look to extend their lead at the top.
Tactical Approaches and Key Players
Waterford United
Waterford’s success has been built on a solid defensive foundation and efficient attacking play. They have scored 30 goals in 20 matches, averaging 1.5 goals per game. Key players like Pádraig Amond, who has netted 11 times, and the in-form Will Jarvis, with seven goals, have been instrumental in their attacking output.
Defensively, Waterford have conceded 24 goals, averaging 1.2 goals per game. Their backline, marshalled by Grant Horton and Ryan Burke, will need to be at their best to contain Shelbourne’s potent attack. Sam Sargeant in goal has also been a key figure, producing crucial saves to keep Waterford in games.
Expected Lineup: Sargeant; Power, Horton, Radkowski, Leahy; McCormack, McDonald, McMenamy; Pattison, Amond, Parsons.
Shelbourne
Shelbourne’s tactical approach under Damien Duff has been one of balanced, disciplined play. They have scored 24 goals and conceded just 14, boasting the best defensive record in the league. Key players include Sean Boyd and Will Jarvis, both with seven goals each, and the experienced John Martin, who has chipped in with three goals.
Their midfield, anchored by Mark Coyle and Evan Caffrey, provides a solid platform for both defence and attack. The defensive unit, led by Paddy Barrett and Tyreke Wilson, has been rock-solid, contributing significantly to their ten clean sheets this season.
Expected Lineup: Kearns; Gannon, Barrett, Molloy, Wilson; Caffrey, Coyle, Lunney, Jarvis; Smith, Martin.
Analysis of Expected Goals (xG)
Waterford’s xG indicates a well-performing attack, consistently creating high-quality chances. However, their conversion rate could improve, suggesting room for growth in clinical finishing. Defensively, their xG against suggests they are conceding slightly more than expected, highlighting occasional lapses.
Shelbourne’s xG data aligns closely with their actual goals scored, reflecting their efficiency in front of goal. Defensively, their xG against is the best in the league, underlining their strong defensive structure and ability to limit opponents’ chances.
Key Areas and Player Duels
The midfield battle will be critical in this matchup. Waterford’s Ben McCormack and Dean McMenamy will need to control the tempo and disrupt Shelbourne’s rhythm. The duel between Pádraig Amond and Shelbourne’s defenders will be pivotal, as Amond’s goal-scoring ability could be decisive.
For Shelbourne, the combination of Sean Boyd and Will Jarvis will pose a significant threat to Waterford’s defence. Their ability to exploit spaces and convert chances will be key to Shelbourne’s success.
Gameplay Prediction
Waterford are expected to adopt a cautious approach, focusing on their defensive solidity and looking to exploit counter-attacking opportunities. They will aim to capitalise on set-pieces, where they have been effective this season. Shelbourne, with their balanced play, will look to control possession and create scoring opportunities through their efficient attacking play. Their defensive resilience will be tested against Waterford’s home form.
Suggestions for Improvement
Waterford United
- Defensive Consistency: Improving defensive coordination and reducing lapses in concentration will be crucial.
- Clinical Finishing: Enhancing their conversion rate from the chances created will boost their goal-scoring tally.
Shelbourne
- Maintain Away Form: Continuing their impressive away performances will be key to their title challenge.
- Manage Pressure: Handling the pressure of leading the league and maintaining consistency will be essential.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Waterford United
- Strengths: Solid home form, effective set-pieces, and key goal-scorers like Amond and Jarvis.
- Weaknesses: Occasional defensive lapses and inconsistent finishing.
Shelbourne
- Strengths: Strong defensive record, balanced attack, and efficiency in creating and converting chances.
- Weaknesses: Managing pressure and occasional dips in form.
Managerial Critique
Keith Long has done an admirable job with Waterford, turning their season around after a slow start. However, his tactical decisions and ability to inspire consistency will be tested against top teams. Damien Duff, on the other hand, has been excellent in guiding Shelbourne to the top. His tactical acumen and ability to maintain the team’s focus will be critical as they push for the title.
Predictions
Best Bet: Shelbourne to Win
Given Shelbourne’s impressive away record and Waterford’s recent form, backing Shelbourne to win appears the best bet. Shelbourne’s balanced approach and solid defence give them the edge in this encounter.
Correct Score Prediction: Waterford United 1-2 Shelbourne
Based on the analysis, a 2-1 victory for Shelbourne is a plausible outcome. Shelbourne’s efficiency in attack and Waterford’s home advantage suggest a closely contested match with Shelbourne edging it.
Goalscorer Prediction: Will Jarvis to Score Anytime
Will Jarvis has been in excellent form, scoring seven goals this season. His ability to find the net and exploit defensive weaknesses makes him a strong candidate to score in this match.
Corner Prediction: Over 9.5 Corners
Both teams have shown a tendency to win corners, with Waterford averaging 4.4 and Shelbourne 4.5 per game. Given their attacking playstyles, predicting over 9.5 corners in the match is reasonable.
Innovative Market Prediction: Total Team Shots on Target for Shelbourne Over 5.5
Shelbourne’s attacking efficiency and Waterford’s defensive vulnerabilities suggest that the visitors will have several shots on target. With players like Jarvis and Boyd in form, over 5.5 shots on target for Shelbourne is a strong prediction.
Top UK Bookies & Best Sign Up Offers
Subscribe To Our Newsletter For Exclusive Tips
Want to have exclusive tips from experts tipsters delivered right into your inbox? Subscribe Now To Our Newsletter. We will never spam, we fully respect your privacy!
