Friday 15/08/2014, 21:00, Ireland Premier League, Round 23, Athlone Town vs Shamrock Rovers
Athlone Town vs Shamrock Rovers Preview
The Irish Premier League has resumed and for the teams struggling at the basement of the standings, the battle is every bit as intense as in late July. Athlone Town is in a sensitive position, as the team trails the leading pack by more than 30 points, while the distance separating them from Bray Wanderers and UCD is a six points. By winning tonight against the Shamrock Rovers, the hosts will close the gap but a victory is very unlikely, even though they have home pitch advantage.
Athlone Town vs Shamrock Rovers Odds
At Expekt
Athlone Town 5.50, Draw 3.80, Shamrock Rovers 1.60
Athlone Town vs Shamrock Rovers Tips
Two months ago, it looked like Athlone Town was able to return to its winning ways, after scoring six goals in one match, but since then they sank into near irrelevance. They are winless in the last six games and allowed an average of two goals per match, while scoring just twice over that span. Virtually every section of this team is struggling heavily and their offensive is nonexistent.
Playing in front of their fans, should motivate them to shift into a more aggressive gear, but as it is, they look toothless and on the verge of accepting relegation. The only bright side in their rotation is the slight improvement of the backline, with Athlone Town limiting opponents to fewer goals, except for the last match that they lost by 3-1.
The hosts are particularly vulnerable in the final minutes of the match, when fatigue catches up with their defenders and mistakes occur at a much higher rate. Tonight they face a team that has been clinical this month and scored a total of four goals without allowing one, including an impressive 2-0 victory over Derry City.
Shamrock Rovers is trying to close the gap separating them from the team sitting on the podium, as they need to greatly improve their position to compete for a Europa League placement. Finn is their top scorer with six goals, but he's a midfielder and the visitors will be using McCain and Kilduff upfront.
Key Facts
- Shamrock Rovers won the last 10 games in a row, shutting down Athlone Town on several occasions.
- The hosts will play defensive football, because a point earned in front of the Rovers would improve their chances to avoid relegation.
Athlone Town vs Shamrock Rovers Prediction
The odds for the visitors to emerge victorious are lower than expected, which makes it hard for punters seeking value to bet on Shamrock Rovers tonight. Since Athlone Town prepares for a 90 min. siege, it is a far better choice to bet on fewer than 2.5 goals to be scored at even odds with Expekt.
Bet: Under 2.5 goals @ 2.00 with Expekt
