Derry City vs Waterford FC predictions for this Irish Premier League fixture. Fourth-placed Waterford United visit second-placed Derry City on Monday evening, aiming to continue their strong run of form. Continue reading below for all our free tips and predictions.
League of Ireland Premier | Gameweek 19 – Jun 3, 2024 at 6pm UK at The Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium
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Derry City vs Waterford United Predictions
Derry City vs Waterford United: Tactical Insights and Key Predictions
Key Stats
– Derry have scored 27 goals in 20 matches, averaging 1.4 goals per game.
– Waterford have netted 14 goals in their last six matches, showcasing their offensive strength.
– Derry’s home games have seen both teams score in five of their last six fixtures.
As the League of Ireland Premier Division continues, fourth-placed Waterford United travel to second-placed Derry City for a crucial clash on Monday evening. Waterford aim to extend their impressive form, while Derry look to solidify their position near the top of the table.
Match Preview
Derry City, a team with only two League of Ireland Premier Division titles to their name, finished as runners-up last season. This season, they have accumulated 32 points from 20 matches, trailing leaders Shelbourne by five points. Despite being the second-highest scorers in the division with 27 goals, Derry are winless in their last three matches, including a loss to Shamrock Rovers and draws with Sligo Rovers and Dundalk.
Ruaidhri Higgins’ squad has shown mixed results recently, winning only two of their last seven league fixtures. However, they boast the best home record in the league, having secured 20 points from 10 matches at the Brandywell Stadium. Their next two fixtures are also at home, giving them a chance to build momentum.
Waterford United, promoted from the second tier last year, have exceeded expectations this season. With 28 points from 18 matches, they sit in fourth place, just four points behind Derry and with two games in hand. Keith Long’s side has won five of their last six league matches, including recent victories against Drogheda United and Bohemians. Their only recent defeat came against league leaders Shelbourne.
Team News
Derry will be without Sam Todd, Jordan McEneff, and Colm Whelan due to injuries. The team emerged unscathed from their goalless draw with Dundalk, and a similar starting XI is expected. Pat Hoban, with nine goals this season, is set to lead the line once again.
Waterford will miss Harvey Macadam, Cameron Cresswell, and Barry Baggley due to injuries but have no new fitness concerns. Padraig Amond, who has netted eight times this season, will spearhead the attack, supported by Christie Pattisson.
Expected Lineups
Derry City: Maher; Dummigan, Connolly, McEleney, Coll; O’Reilly, Diallo; McMullan, Patching, Duffy; Hoban
Waterford United: Sergeant; Power, Horton, Leahy, McCourt; McDonald, McMenamy, McCormack, Parsons; Pattisson, Amond
Tactical Analysis and Gameplay Predictions
Midfield Dynamics and Key Duels
The midfield battle will be crucial, with Derry’s O’Reilly and Diallo looking to dominate possession and drive the team forward. Waterford’s McCormack and McMenamy will need to be disciplined defensively and quick in transition to counter Derry’s pressing game.
Derry’s Attacking Approach
Derry will likely rely on their home advantage and strong attacking record. The presence of Hoban as a target man, combined with the creative flair of Patching and McMullan, will be central to their strategy. They will aim to control the game through possession and create scoring opportunities through quick interchanges and set-pieces.
Waterford’s Defensive Resilience and Counter-Attacks
Waterford, while the form team, will focus on a solid defensive setup, aiming to absorb pressure and hit Derry on the break. Amond’s experience and Pattisson’s pace will be key in exploiting any gaps in Derry’s defence. Waterford’s recent form suggests they can be effective in transitioning from defence to attack swiftly.
Expected Goals Averages
Derry have averaged 1.4 goals per game this season, demonstrating their offensive capability. Defensively, they have conceded 0.9 goals per match, indicating a relatively strong backline. Waterford, with an average of 1.4 goals per game, have also shown offensive promise, though they concede slightly more at 1.1 goals per match.
Betting Angles and Predictions
Best Bet: Both Teams to Score
Given both teams’ scoring records and recent form, betting on both teams to score appears to be the safest bet. Derry’s home games have often seen both sides finding the net, and Waterford’s recent goal-scoring form supports this prediction.
Correct Score Prediction: Derry City 2-2 Waterford United
A 2-2 draw reflects both teams’ offensive strengths and recent form. Derry’s solid home record and Waterford’s impressive run suggest a high-scoring, evenly matched encounter.
Goalscorer Prediction: Pat Hoban to Score Anytime
Pat Hoban has been a consistent scorer for Derry, and his form this season makes him a prime candidate to find the net. His positioning and finishing ability in and around the box are likely to trouble Waterford’s defence.
First Half Result Prediction: Draw
Considering the balanced nature of both teams, predicting a draw at halftime is reasonable. Both sides are likely to be cautious early on, feeling each other out before pushing for goals in the second half.
Innovative Market: Total Corners Over 10.5
Given Derry’s attacking style and Waterford’s counter-attacking threats, a high number of corners can be expected. Both teams’ tendency to push forward and create chances supports this market.
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