Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the League of Ireland Premier Division match.
In Round 24 of the League of Ireland Premier Division, these two mid-table sides experienced contrasting fortunes. As a result, Waterford finally overtook Galway United in the standings. However, the latter now has a chance to reverse that shift.
Galway United
Both teams are currently closer to the relegation zone than to competing for European qualification. That said, two clubs are performing significantly worse this season. Galway United have shown slightly better form than Waterford, particularly in defence: they have conceded 30 goals compared to Waterford’s 42. Galway United have generally avoided heavy defeats, unlike their opponents. Admittedly, they did suffer a 3:0 loss away to Bohemian in the penultimate round, but Bohemian currently occupy second place in the standings, unlike Waterford.
Waterford
Waterford were brought down to earth in Round 23 with a heavy 7:0 defeat away to Derry City. The team appeared to respond by beating Cork City (2:0), though it’s worth noting that Cork City are firmly rooted to the bottom of the standings, so that result offers little real insight into form. Waterford’s away record remains an issue: after drawing one match, they went on to lose their next three away games, slipping to sixth in the away standings.
Galway United vs Waterford Prediction
The pattern here is hard to ignore: Galway United have beaten Waterford at home three times across this season and last. Each win was by a narrow margin, with two of those decided by just one goal. This match looks set to follow a similar script.
