Athlone Town (H)

After a fairly turbulent week and depressing month in the League, the question must be asked whether we're showing any meaningful progress under Healy, particularly when the squad was beginning to find form under Conor McCarthy immediately before his departure? Either way, with Heimer still out for at least another week, Matt Connor will immediately debut between the sticks, and Ewan Lee has a good chance of starting at the back, though Luke Doolan will presumably have to wait until the second half for his opportunity to shine. As well as their decent showing at Mounthawk Park, Athlone are just beginning to find league momentum, with two straight draws, so we'll need to raise our game considerably if the rot is to be stopped tomorrow night.

Hard to know which way this goes. Athlone are improving under Ryan while we are going the other way. Hopefully some good comes from the two sackings in that we might have signed a keeper who can save and kick the ball.
4 points from weekend games would be a great return. I'm going for a gritty 2 0 win.

The transfer of Matt Connor from Athlone to Kerry gives credence that what was rumoured to have happened at the Wexford - Athlone game may have occurred. At halftime in that game, Matt Connor didn't appear for the second half for Athlone and I didn't spot the change myself. Matt, a former Wexford player, had been doing fine for Athlone but, after the game, the rumour went around that Matt had been hooked at the break after an almighty blow-up with Ryan. His subsequent transfer would suggest that it did in fact occur!

Great evenings work, a win and a clean sheet. Finally a keeper who can do the basics right. The defence were not perfect but much improved. Lee made a solid debut, some good interceptions. Thought Ronan Oran and Carol were outstanding in midfield. Up front Cleary is handful good pace and lovely finish for goal. If Dan could convert his chances he'd play at a higher level.
Saying all that Athlone were dreadful so Treaty will be a different game Monday. On Treaty I see our ex player Steven Healy sent off last night. I presume he's suspended Monday.

You'd expect so, when Luke was similarly suspended for last night.