Match Preview: Wexford FC (A)

Date: March 7th 2025
Kick-off: 7:45pm
Venue: Ferrycarrig Park

Athlone Town visit Ferrycarrig Park on Friday where they face Wexford FC, as Dario Castelo’s men look to build on the momentum from last week’s gallant display in the Midland’s Derby against Longford Town.

Wexford have started their 2025 campaign with intent, with two wins from their opening two games against Bray and UCD. Having beaten Wexford in the promotion play-off semi final last year, Athlone are more than capable of claiming all three points under the glaring lights of Ferrycarrig Park

What do you need to know?

Stephen Elliot’s men are in good form coming into this game, following some strong recruitment over the Winter break. A resolute centre-half partnership consisting of Robbie McCourt and Dean Larkin, has meant the home side are yet to concede this season. With Ben Feeney opening his 2025 account last week, he will be hoping to continue his goal scoring form and put one past former Waterford FC goalkeeper, Paul Martin.

Following a lacklustre start to the season, Athlone are eager to ascend the First Division table, building on last week’s performance in what proved to be a physical demanding game for both sides. The game served as a confidence booster to the side who are determined to claim their first victory of the campaign.

Team News

Dan McKenna and Bastien Hery are both working towards full fitness, while Adam Wixted’s shoulder injury means he misses out on Friday’s clash. Declan McDaid returned to training this week, but this game comes to soon for him. It is hoped he will return to the squad in advance of next week’s home fixture with UCD

Key Players to Watch

The aforementioned Ben Feeney proved a handful for the Longford Town defence at Bishopsgate last week. The 21-year-old will be yearning to display his goal-scoring prowess as the season continues, following his sides limp start to this year’s campaign.

For Wexford, Mikie Rowe may cause problems down the wing for the Athlone defence, with his two goals against Bray proving the difference for his team. The experienced winger, who scored 12 goals for Wexford last year is capable of playing out wide or in a central position and his versatility serves as an asset going forward for Stephen Elliot’s men.

Past Encounters

The sides met on six occasions in 2024 with Athlone winning twice, Wexford winning twice and two draws. The most notable victory of course was the play-off semi final first leg, with one goal seperating the sides after 180 minutes of football.

Live Coverage

Match tickets can be purchased here
The game will be streamed live on LOITV here
Subscriptions for LOITV can be purchased here

Preview by Jake McLoughlin
Photograph by Peter Naughton