Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the League of Ireland Premier Division match.
In the previous round, Waterford held St Patrick's Athletic to a 1:1 draw, inadvertently helping Drogheda United gain ground on one of their direct competitors. The question now is whether Waterford will again play a decisive role by dropping points to a team currently short on form.
Waterford
Waterford are in need of points themselves. Sitting eighth in the standings, they have only recently rejoined the mid-table battle but still trail fifth-placed St Patrick's Athletic by four points. Their home form is unpredictable: three wins and five defeats. That said, their recent home record is more encouraging, with two victories in the last three outings — the only setback coming in a 1:3 loss to league leaders Shamrock Rovers.
Drogheda United
Drogheda United currently occupy second place, although they have played more matches than most of their nearest challengers. Their consistency both home and away has underpinned their high standing. On the road, they rank second in the away standings, just ahead of Waterford, having taken 13 points from a possible 27. However, a worrying trend has emerged: they are winless in their last four matches. Their last victory came on 11 April in a 3:1 win over Derry City, and they have failed to score in each of their last two games.
Waterford vs Drogheda United Prediction
Given Waterford’s high-risk approach at home, a decisive result looks likely. They have claimed two wins and a draw in their last three home encounters with Drogheda United, suggesting that the visitors, despite their league position, may well leave empty-handed again.
