Drogheda United vs Waterford United Predictions ahead of this fixture in Ireland’s Premier Division. Drogheda United aim to end a 10-game winless streak against Waterford United at Weavers Park on Friday. Read on for our predictions.
League of Ireland Premier | Jul 26, 2024 at 7.45pm UK at Weavers Park
Drogheda United vs Waterford United Predictions
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Can Drogheda United Turn Their Fortunes Around Against Waterford United?
Key Stats
– Drogheda United have conceded 47 goals in 24 matches this season.
– Waterford United’s Pádraig Amond has scored 11 league goals this term.
– Drogheda have failed to win any of their last ten league games.
Drogheda United face an uphill battle to secure their first league win since early May as they host Waterford United at Weavers Park. With a 10-game winless streak in the league, Drogheda’s fortunes have plummeted, leaving them languishing at the bottom of the League of Ireland Premier Division table. Meanwhile, Waterford United, currently third in the standings, will be looking to solidify their European qualification hopes with a victory.
Current Form and Statistics
Drogheda United’s recent form is nothing short of dismal. They have lost seven of their last ten league matches, managing just three draws. Their most recent league game saw them suffer a 4-2 defeat against local rivals Dundalk. However, they did manage a measure of revenge in the FAI Cup, securing a 2-1 victory over Dundalk to advance to the third round. This brief respite may offer them some momentum as they return to league action.
Waterford United, on the other hand, have shown a mixed bag of results in their last six league fixtures, with three wins and three defeats. Despite this inconsistency, they sit comfortably in third place with 37 points from 24 matches. Their recent form away from home has been less than stellar, having lost three of their last four Premier Division road trips. Nevertheless, they too come into this match on the back of a cup victory, having edged past Cockhill Celtic 2-1.
Team News and Expected Lineups
Drogheda United will likely miss the services of Jethren Barr, Aaron McNally, Gary Deegan, Zishim Bawa, and Darragh Markey. In their absence, James Bolger and Warren Davis, who were pivotal in their recent cup success, are expected to feature prominently. Bolger, having scored on his debut, is set to make his first Premier Division appearance, while Davis could be rewarded with a starting role.
For Waterford, Christie Pattisson, Rowan McDonald, Kyle White, and Barry Baggley remain unavailable, with goalkeeper Sam Sargeant also a doubt. Darragh Leahy, Ben McCormack, and Connor Parsons are pushing for recalls, while Pádraig Amond, their top scorer with 11 league goals, is expected to lead the line.
Drogheda United possible starting lineup: Dennison; Ahui, Bolger, Quinn, Keaney, Kane; Heeney, Farrell, Brennan, Davis; James-Taylor
Waterford United possible starting lineup: Connor; Power, Radkowski, O'Keeffe, Leahy; McCormack, McCourt; Arubi, McMenamy, Parsons; Amond
Tactical Analysis and Key Matchups
The game is likely to be decided in the midfield battle, where Drogheda's Shane Heeney and Luke Heeney will face off against Waterford’s Ben McCormack and Robert McCourt. Drogheda will need to leverage their home advantage, relying on their midfield to disrupt Waterford's play and initiate counterattacks. Warren Davis's pace and James Bolger's physical presence will be crucial in breaking down Waterford’s defence.
Waterford's strategy will likely focus on exploiting Drogheda’s defensive frailties. With Drogheda conceding 47 goals this season, Waterford’s attacking trio of Arubi, McMenamy, and Amond will look to capitalise on any defensive lapses. Waterford’s pressing game could force Drogheda into mistakes, particularly given their recent struggles in retaining possession.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Drogheda United: Strengths: Despite their poor form, Drogheda have shown resilience in their cup run, which suggests they can rise to the occasion. James Bolger and Warren Davis have added new dimensions to their attack. Weaknesses: Their defence has been porous, conceding goals at an alarming rate, particularly in recent games. They struggle to maintain possession and create clear-cut chances, averaging only 3.6 shots on target per game.
Waterford United: Strengths: Waterford possess a balanced attack, with Amond's goal-scoring prowess complemented by creative midfielders like McCormack. Their defensive record is respectable, with only 26 goals conceded in 24 matches. Weaknesses: Inconsistency has plagued their away form, and they have a tendency to concede first, putting pressure on their attack to respond. They also need to improve their passing accuracy in the opposition half, which stands at 55.5%.
Managerial Insights
Kevin Doherty, managing Drogheda United, is under significant pressure. His team’s defensive organisation and lack of attacking cohesion have been major issues. Doherty must find a way to shore up the defence and inspire his players to break their winless streak. On the other hand, Keith Long of Waterford United has successfully guided his team to a strong league position but must address their inconsistent performances, especially on the road.
Predictions
Best Bet: Waterford United to Win
Given Drogheda’s defensive vulnerabilities and Waterford’s superior league position, the best bet is a victory for Waterford United. Drogheda’s recent form suggests they will struggle to contain Waterford’s attack, particularly if Amond and Arubi are in form. Waterford’s pressing game and Drogheda’s tendency to concede goals make a Waterford win the most likely outcome.
Correct Score Prediction: Drogheda United 0-2 Waterford United
Waterford are expected to dominate this match, given Drogheda’s defensive woes. A 2-0 scoreline in favour of Waterford reflects their superior quality and Drogheda’s inability to keep clean sheets. This score also aligns with the best bet prediction of a Waterford win, as they are likely to exploit Drogheda’s defensive lapses.
Goalscorer Prediction: Pádraig Amond to Score Anytime
Pádraig Amond, Waterford’s top scorer, is likely to find the net against a Drogheda defence that has been leaking goals. Amond’s clinical finishing and Drogheda’s defensive frailties make him a strong candidate to score at least once during the match. His ability to be in the right place at the right time will be crucial.
Corner Prediction: Waterford United to Win More Corners
Waterford’s attacking play and Drogheda’s defensive stance suggest that Waterford will win more corners. Waterford’s higher average of corners per game (4.3) compared to Drogheda’s (3.7) supports this prediction. Expect Waterford to dominate the attacking play, leading to more corner opportunities.
Innovative Market Prediction: Total Team Shots on Target Over 4.5 for Waterford United
Waterford are expected to apply pressure on Drogheda’s defence, resulting in numerous shots on target. Given their average of 3.8 shots on target per game and Drogheda’s defensive record, Waterford surpassing 4.5 shots on target is a plausible outcome. Their ability to create chances and Drogheda’s defensive lapses make this a strong bet.
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