Waterford - Shelbourne
When: 20:45
Where: Irish Premier League
Waterford
Waterford currently ranks 8th after 19 matches with a record of 7 wins, 2 draws, and 10 losses. With 20 goals scored and 31 conceded, the team demonstrates a weak defense (-11 goal difference). The last five games yielded only one win, two draws, and two losses, reflecting inconsistency. Offensively, Waterford averages 1.05 goals per game but concedes 1.63, resulting in a vulnerable back line. The team shows difficulties in defensive behavior, especially against fast transitions and pressing. Their strengths lie in crossing attacks, but the execution leaves much to be desired.
Shelbourne
Shelbourne sits in 5th place after 21 matches with 7 wins, 9 draws, and 5 losses. The team impresses with a more stable defense, conceding 22 goals while scoring 24 (+2 goal difference). In the last five games, Shelbourne recorded two wins, two draws, and one loss, showing better form than Waterford. Tactically, the team relies on a compact defense, often in a 4-4-2 or 4-5-1 formation, focusing on counters and set pieces. Offensively, creativity can sometimes be lacking, but the squad knows how to secure results and frustrate opponents.
Injuries
Waterford must do without Matty Smith (knee injury) and Trae Coyle (thigh injury), which further weakens their already thin squad. Shelbourne, on the other hand, has no injured or suspended players.
Head-to-head
In the last five encounters, Shelbourne dominated with four wins against only one loss to Waterford. These victories were mostly narrow (1-0 or 0-1), highlighting Shelbourne's ability to break down Waterford's defense while maintaining their own stability. Notably, Shelbourne often wins by minimal margins, and although Waterford won the last away encounter, this was an exception.
Match prediction
Waterford shows clear defensive weaknesses and fluctuating form, while Shelbourne impresses with a stable defense and pragmatic style of play. The history of direct clashes clearly favors Shelbourne, who always find ways to neutralize Waterford's attacks and counter effectively. The home team will fight back, but their weaknesses make it difficult to score points against a well-organized Shelbourne. Therefore, it is advisable to bet on the double chance in favor of Shelbourne, as they are the favored underdog more likely not to lose.
My tip: Double chance Shelbourne (1.30)
Tip