Monaghan United v Salthill Devon

After two good results over the weekend, Monaghan United are at home this Friday evening against newcomers to the league, Salthill Devon.  It’s the second meeting of the sides this season and in the previous encounter United had an impressive 6-1 win.

On Saturday evening United’s fine away record looked to be at an end when they trailed Athlone 4-0 with 20 minutes to go. For a defence that most teams found difficult to be break down this season this score line was a very uncharacteristic concession. But what a fine final 20 minutes they had to get back on par and Athlone who had been coasting were very relieved to hear the final whistle.  Again in the FAI/Ford Cup against league minnows –FC Carlow, United had to come from behind before going on to win 2-1. The leaking of these scores will be of concern to manager Mick Cooke, however he has almost a full squad to pick from and he should be well able to remedy the problem. Recent form from both sides would indicate a home win.

Injuries: Barry Clancy

Suspensions: None

Previous 5 results

Next 5 Games

Manager’s Quotes

“Tuesday evening’s game was a typical cup match with plenty of twists and turns. After the drawn game I knew FC Carlow were capable of causing us difficulties and taking one of the few opportunities that fell to them with a 5th minute penalty proved that point. Indeed the goal was probably a blessing in disguise as it got rid of the nerves, the lads kept their shape and composure and it was obvious that we would be back on terms in the manner in which they were playing. Were it not for a very inform Carlow keeper, Gavin Dowling our tally would have been very much higher on the night and of course we had our own ‘Frank Lampard  moment’ when Sean Brennan struck the crossbar, I will be letting Sepp Blatter know my feelings on the matter.

It’s back to the league with the first visit of Salthill Devon to Gortakeegan.  In our previous meeting we had a good win in Galway, however in that game they scored as good a goal as we conceded this season and demonstrated with a number of subsequent moves that  they would be more than capable of hurting any team.

Again I will have most of the panel to pick from and there is good competition for places which is healthy. On present form I would be looking forward to a home win but I won’t be taking anything for granted as we don’t want to have the record of being the first team to be defeated by Salthill as I believe they are very close to such an achievement.It is encouraging to see so many new faces following us and I wish the new Supporters Club every success and hope that there numbers will increase steadily.”

Yours in football,

Mick Cooke