Airtricity League of Ireland  –  1st Division.

Monaghan United   v   Athlone Town

As the final series of games commence next week we are now entering the business end of the league. Monaghan United are second in the table a position they have more or less maintained all season so are well positioned to contest the promotion stakes for next season. They have been showing good form in recent games especially in their last away one to Limerick. The transfer window has been one of opportunity for manager Roddy Collins and his new signings of Jordan Keegan and Keith Quinn had eye catching performances and Davy Byrne completed his away debut with a goal after coming on in the second half against Limerick.

Athlone’s season has never got going, however recently they have made some good signings which appears to have strengthened the side.  On the previous outings between the sides United had a comprehensive 3-0 home win.

The short summer recess will have allowed the side recharge their batteries. Such a break can sometimes have a negative effect on a side that are going well but Collins is an excellent motivator and he will have no problem re focusing their concentration.

Apart from Conor Mc. Mahon who looks to be out for the rest of the season there are no other injury problems and Collins should have a strong panel to select from.

Verdict: Home win.

Injuries:  Conor Mc. Mahon,

Suspensions :  None

Last Five Results

Limerick
0
2
Monaghan United

Monaghan United
1
2
Mervue United

Wexford Youths
1
2
Monaghan United

Monaghan United
0
1
Shelbourne

Limerick
5
0
Monaghan United




Next Five Games

Fri 19 Aug
Monaghan United
v
Waterford United
8.p.m.

Sat 27 Aug
Sligo Rovers
v
Monaghan United
7.45.p.m.

Sat 3 Sept
Finn Harps
v
Monaghan United
TBC

Fri 9 Sept
Monaghan United
v
Salthill Devon
8.p.m.

Fri 16 Sept
Cork City
v
Monaghan United
7.45.p.m.






Manager Quotes “ It’s seems a long time now since the Limerick game and what a performance we put on in Jackman Park, the winning score-line didn’t flatter us in the end. If space permitted I would outline the contribution of each player on the evening, suffice to say they were all excellent, I was also greatly encouraged by the new signings of Keith Quinn, Jordan Keegan (whom the Limerick press-box gave ‘man of the match’ to) and Davy Byrne took his goal chance well. We have performed well in the first two series of games and we hope to do even better in the final one. I am now in the very comfortable position of when I have to look to the bench I know the players that I can bring on will be strengthening the side rather than maki! ng substitutions for change sake. I believe we have a good blend between the new players and the existing squad.

I must commend the supporters who despite the fact that their car broke down nevertheless regardless the high cost of a taxi made their way to Jackman Park, I was delighted that we could reward their efforts with the performance of the season”

Looking forward to meeting all the supporters again after the short  summer break.

Yours in Football,

Roddy Collins.