The return of LOI action after the international break sees Waterford host Shamrock Rovers at the RSC.
Confidence is understandably low among Waterford players and supporters after 5 defeats on the spin. In that run, they’ve shipped 5 goals to Dundalk and 4 to Galway; 2 sides who would be expected to be in a relegation battle with the Blues.
Rovers were unbeaten in 5 heading into the international break. Wins against Derry, Sligo and Galway and two respectable draws away from home at Tolka Park and in Drogheda have propelled the Hoops just 3 points off Bohs at the summit.
Key Information
Kickoff: 19:45
Where to watch: LOITV
Referee: Alan Patchell
Betting Odds: Waterford @5/1, Draw @3/1 & Shamrock Rovers @4/9
Team News
Jon Daly is a man under pressure and has been desperately trying to find the seemingly elusive solution to Waterford’s woes. He’s chopped and changed his starting lineup but is yet to find the winning formula. The addition of Kevin Long will give them some much needed experience and leadership at the heart of the back four but it remains unclear whether he’s fit enough to be thrown straight into the action.
Stephen Bradley will be sweating over the fitness of Adam Brennan after the 18 year old was forced out of action for the Ireland under-21 setup due to a knock he picked up in the home win over Galway before the break. Rory Gaffney, Danny Mandriou and Max Kovaleskis are still unavailable. Dan Cleary is nearing a return but this game will probably come too soon.
Key Statistics
Waterford have conceded 11 goals in their last 3 games.
Shamrock Rovers have won their last 6 meetings with the Blues.
Key Players
Conan Noonan would’ve hoped for much more stability at Waterford when he decided to make the somewhat surprising permanent switch from Shamrock Rovers to Waterford in December. Despite all the changes made by Daly; Noonan has remained a fixture in the Waterford 11. He’ll be hoping he can hurt his old teammates on Friday night and finally get his new employers season up and running.
Tunmise Sobowale is another player playing against his former club on Friday evening. The St. Mirren loanee spent a couple of years at the RSC between 2021 and 2023 before moving to England to join Shrewsbury. The versatile defender has been an excellent addition to Rovers’ ranks. He’s started 7 out of 8 games since joining the club with consistent performances throughout.
Previous Meetings
22/9/25 Waterford 1-2 Shamrock Rovers
27/6/25 Shamrock Rovers 1-0 Waterford
16/5/25 Waterford 1-3 Shamrock Rovers
11/4/25 Shamrock Rovers 2-0 Waterford