It’s fifth versus sixth this weekend as an in-form Bohemians side welcome Bray Wanderers to Dalymount Park. Both sides have been in the news lately for very different reasons; Bohemians hit the headlines after ending Cork City’s incredible unbeaten run, while Bray’s ownership tussle was highlighted throughout the media.
The away side will be hoping that they can bring the focus back onto the pitch, as they try to cement their position above their Dublin opponents. However, Keith Long will have other ideas after his Bohemians side picked-up two incredibly impressive victories against their biggest rivals Shamrock Rovers and Irish Premier League leaders Cork City.
Bohemians’ form
The Gypsies are sixth in the league at the moment, but have been playing like a side that is on a much higher footing. They got a 2-1 victory over their closest rivals, Shamrock Rovers a couple of games back.
They showed great wherewithal in that game and punished a Rovers side that looked complacent at times. Last time out, they defeated Cork. This was their most impressive performance of the season and really cemented their future ambition.
After all, Cork had gone 23 games unbeaten prior to that loss. A big reason for Bohemians resurgence as a top team is the return of striker Ismahil Akinade. Akinade has suffered through several serious injuries already this season, but has managed to find his way back onto the pitch and his form since returning has been sensational. Keith Long and fans of The Gypsies will be hoping he can stay fit for the rest of the season.
Bray Wanderers’ form
Bray are coming off the back of a disappointing 2-3 loss against Finn Harps, but it has been off-field matters that have been the focus in recent weeks. The owner has released press release, after press release, blaming the local area for many of the club’s problems. He even compared the area’s governing body to North Korea.
This sort of tumultuous relationship with the local community cannot possibly be helpful to the side and they look a team that is incredibly lucky that they won enough points in the early stages of the season. Otherwise, they may be looking down the barrel of a relegation fight.
News
Bohemians’ resurgence is in direct opposition with Bray’s downfall for column inches in Irish football news. On the one hand, you have a side that look like they can challenge with the best and bunch of players who look happy to be playing to their potential.
On the other, you have a club which is at a crossroads of its existence and players who don’t even know if they’ll have a team to play for next season. You have got to feel sorry for Bray and their group of supporters.
Betting tips
There is only one team that is going to win this game and that is quite clearly the one from North Dublin; Bohemians. They are the better side, the side with form and the club that is better run.
We can see them winning with ease, so we have no problem telling you to take advantage of the 13/10 price that Ladbrokes have them at for the win.
It might just be the best bet of the weekend!