Waterford United will hope to snap a four-game winless streak on Friday when they welcome high-flying Bohemians to the RSC in the League of Ireland Premier Division. With the visitors pushing for a title challenge and Waterford hovering above the relegation scrap, both sides have plenty on the line in this mid-season clash.
Match Overview
Back in the top flight after promotion in 2023, Waterford United have struggled to find consistency. Now under the guidance of John Coleman, they sit eighth in the standings with 23 points from 19 games. Despite a promising start to the campaign, the Blues have taken just five points from their last five matches.
Bohemians, on the other hand, are enjoying a resurgence under Alan Reynolds. Sitting second with 33 points from 19 games, they’ve won five of their last six and trail leaders Shamrock Rovers by nine points — though with two games in hand. A win here would further boost their title credentials.
When these sides met earlier in the campaign, Bohemians edged a narrow win. Given Waterford’s defensive struggles and Bohs’ recent form, the visitors will be confident of doing the double.
Team News
Waterford are contending with a few injury concerns. Andrew Boyle (calf), Kacper Radkowski (ankle), Matthew Smith (knock), and Trae Coyle (hamstring) are all expected to miss out. Padraig Amond and Tommy Lonergan, who have combined for 11 league goals, are set to lead the line once more.
Bohemians are without Alex Lacey and Connor Parsons (both hamstring). The visitors will rely on Dayle Rooney, who has three goals in his last four appearances, to provide a spark. Their back four remains one of the league’s most solid, with just 19 goals conceded all season.
Tactical Review
Waterford often deploy a direct, counter-attacking style, leaning heavily on the experience of Amond and Lonergan up front. However, their midfield has struggled to maintain control in recent matches, often leading to prolonged defensive spells.
Bohemians favour a more compact approach, anchored by a disciplined back line and a workmanlike midfield. Their attacking play has relied on wide deliveries and set-piece threats, although goals have come in short supply — just 23 from 19 games — making efficiency in front of goal critical.
How to Watch
This League of Ireland Premier Division match will be streamed live on LOITV.ie, with kickoff scheduled for 7:45 PM IST (7:45 PM WAT) on Friday, June 21.
Predictions
Softfootball Prediction: Waterford United 0-1 Bohemians
Waterford are scrapping hard for survival, but their defensive vulnerabilities and lack of recent form could see them fall short. Bohemians aren’t the league’s most prolific scorers, but their strong defensive shape and recent momentum should carry them to another narrow win.