MATCH PREVIEW: Waterford FC -v- Longford Town (24/02/2023)
SSE Airtricity First Division
Waterford FC -v- Longford Town
Friday, 24th February 2023
Kick-Off: 7:45pm
Referee: Gavin Colfer
Waterford FC return to the RSC on Friday night as the Blues play host to Longford Town in the first home game of the 2023 campaign.
After an impressive 3-0 victory over Wexford FC last Friday night, Danny Searle’s side will be hoping to make it back-to-back wins to start the season.
The Blues raced to a two-goal lead on Friday night when Wassim Aouachria opened the scoring after four minutes, before doubling it eight minutes later. The Blues striker completed his hat-trick midway through the second half to help secure all three points against our near neighbours.
The sides last met back in October when the Blues came from behind to claim the points against Longford. The home side took the lead after just four minutes through Matthew O’Brien before two goals in quick succession from Phoenix Patterson and Aouachria saw the Blues take the win.
The sides last meeting in the RSC saw the Midlands club take the three points in a 2-1 win over the Blues, thanks to late goals from Jordan Adeyamo and Sam Verdon after Shane Griffin had given the Blues the lead after 14 minutes.
From The Dugout: Speaking ahead of Friday’s match against Longford Town, Head Coach Danny Searle said:
“We were happy with the performance in Wexford but we know there’s much more to come from this group. Starting games well is important and to score twice in the opening quarter hour was the best start we could have hoped for.
“To hear the noise and see the colour around the ground made it feel like a home match and we’re delighted to give the fans something to cheer about in the opening match.
“Longford have given us some really tough games over the years so we’re expecting more of the same. They have a new manager and some good young players so we won’t be underestimating them.”
Team News: Matthew Connor continues to miss out through injury, while Kilian Cantwell is available after suspension.
