UCD AFC take on Bohemians in the UCD Bowl on Friday night.
UCD welcome Bohemians to the UCD Bowl on Friday night. Kick off is 7.45pm in Belfield.
UCD’s last two outings came over the weekend with The Students recording a 0-0 draw in the Brandywell against Derry City. In a game of few chances both sides could have taken all three points but The Students were happy to share the spoils after a hard fought encounter.
Martin Russell: “Over the last number of years our trips to Derry have not been as fruitful as we would have liked and in some cases we have been heavily beaten. It was pleasing to see our side go there and compete and show no fear in front of an impressive home crowd.”
UCD then took on St Pats in Richmond Park in the EA Sports Cup. Losing 2-1 was not the end of the world as it gave Martin Russell an opportunity to further develop his young squad. Several of the Under 19 squad impressed during the game.
Bohemians come to the Bowl with an impressive record against UCD in their last four outings. Bohemians came out on top in all but one encounter. The only loss for the Gypsies coming in the Bowl. UCD will be looking to continue their impressive scoring rate on Friday. The Students had not been involved in a goalless draw before the trip to Derry since March 18 2011. This year the Students have already scored 18 goals in all competitions with Graham Rusk leading the way in the scoring charts. The Students have not lost by more than one goal this season and have remained extremely competitive to the final whistle.
Martin Russell: “The recent games against Derry in the League and Pats in the Cup have shown how our young team can compete against seasoned squads that have been around the league a long time. Taking a point at the Brandywell is no mean feat. We go into the Bohs game looking to build on that performance and the boost to our confidence.”
“We recognise Bohs will be buoyed by their recent win against Cork, we know they will have high expectations and they will be keen to climb up the league but we will do all we can to stop that.”
Bohemians bring a wealth of former UCD players and staff to the Bowl. Aaron Callaghan and Terry Butler will lead a squad that includes former UCD players Evan McMillan, Peter McMahon, Dwayne Wilson and Keith Ward.
Injuries: Mick Leahy (Hip Flexor), Ger Barron (Toe), Chris Mulhall (groin)
Paul Corry is available as is Gary Burke
