Match Overview
Waterford FC and St. Patrick's Ath are gearing up for a crucial League of Ireland match that could impact their season trajectories. Waterford FC, currently struggling to find consistency, will face a formidable opponent in St. Patrick's Ath, who have shown impressive form this season. The match will take place at the Waterford Regional Sports Centre, providing Waterford FC with a chance to capitalize on their home ground.
Odds Analysis
The average odds for this match suggest a challenging game for Waterford FC, with odds of 4.17 for a home win, 3.45 for a draw, and 1.82 for an away win. This translates to a probability of approximately 24% for Waterford FC to win, 29% for a draw, and 47% for St. Patrick's Ath to secure victory. The odds favor St. Patrick's Ath, indicating their stronger position in the league and recent performances.
Team Analysis
Waterford FC
- Current Form: Waterford FC has struggled this season, averaging 1.17 goals per match and conceding 1.5 goals.
- Strengths: Their dribbling ability, with 15 dribbles per match, and successful dribbles at 10.33, could be pivotal.
- Weaknesses: Possession remains a challenge at 43%, impacting their ability to control games.
St. Patrick's Ath
- Current Form: St. Patrick's Ath has been more consistent, averaging 1.67 goals per match and conceding only 1.
- Strengths: Their possession rate of 58.67% and high passing accuracy are key advantages.
- Weaknesses: Despite their strong form, they have a slightly higher rate of shots off target at 9.83.
Head-to-Head Statistics
Historically, St. Patrick's Ath has had the upper hand in this fixture, often dominating possession and creating more goal-scoring opportunities.
Tactical Approaches
Waterford FC may focus on counter-attacks, leveraging their dribbling skills, while St. Patrick's Ath is likely to maintain possession and control the midfield.
Key Players Spotlight
Waterford FC
- Stephen McMullan: Leading with 67.85 points, his performance will be crucial.
- K. White: With 2 goals this season, he remains a key threat.
St. Patrick's Ath
- Aidan Keena: Top scorer with 5 goals, his form is vital for their attacking prowess.
- Jamie Lennon: With 116.18 points, his midfield control is essential.
Statistical Deep Dive
- Offensive Metrics: St. Patrick's Ath averages 15 shots per match, with 5.17 on target, compared to Waterford's 11.17 shots and 4 on target.
- Defensive Metrics: Waterford FC's interceptions at 46.5 could disrupt St. Patrick's Ath's passing game.
- Possession and Passing: St. Patrick's Ath's superior possession and passing accuracy could dictate the match tempo.
Prediction and Conclusion
Given the statistical analysis and current form, St. Patrick's Ath is favored to win. Their possession and passing strengths, combined with Aidan Keena's goal-scoring ability, could be decisive. Waterford FC's chances hinge on exploiting counter-attacks and set-pieces.
Final Score Prediction: St. Patrick's Ath 2-1 Waterford FC Half Time Score Prediction: St. Patrick's Ath 1-0 Waterford FC Both Teams to Score Probability: 60% Over 2.5 Goals Probability: 55%