Bray Wanderers return to league action this week with a home fixture against St Patrick's Athletic. The Seagulls, who sit second in the First Division with 50 points from 32 games, are aiming to build on consecutive victories over Treaty United and Kerry.
Their recent form shows two wins, one draw, and two losses from the last five outings. The 2-0 win against Treaty United on September 18 saw goals from E. Mustali and R. Ferizaj, while T. Sammy's early strike secured a 1-0 win away to Kerry the week before.
Squad news and selection
Manager Ian Ryan has a near-full squad to choose from for the match at the Carlisle Grounds. The team's defensive solidity in the last two clean sheets is expected to be a foundation, with the manager likely to keep changes to a minimum. Top scorer M. Murphy, with eight goals this term, will lead the line as Bray look to close the 21-point gap to leaders Cork City.
St Patrick's Athletic, a Premier Division side, present a significant challenge in this cup tie, but Bray's focus remains firmly on their league campaign. The club's current standing and goal difference of +17, with 61 scored and 44 conceded, reflects a competitive season.
The promotion picture
With eight games remaining, every point is vital in the race for promotion. The win over Treaty United halted a minor slump and restored momentum. Ryan told the club's media team.
The match against UCD on September 25 looms as a direct clash with a promotion rival, adding extra importance to maintaining form this week. The final whistle this week will signal the start of preparations for that key away trip.
First reported at Sofascore
