- Finn Harps have been in dire form, losing each of their last five matches.
- Finn Harps have failed to win their last away game against Wexford.
- Wexford have been in mixed form at home, but have the stronger overall record.
Wexford to win and both teams to score at 73/100 - ★★☆
Wexford FC come into this game as the clear favorite with the bookmakers at 41/100, Finn Harps are out at 6/1 and the draw at 18/5. However, with Wexford's home form a little bit patchy of late, the draw could be a definite runner in this one.
Wexford FC have won two and lost three of their last five in a mixed run of form that still sees Ian Ryan's side sitting in eighth place in the First Division 2026 on 37 points from 30 games, while Finn Harps, with their 22 points from 30 matches, prop up the rest of the table in 10th.
Wexford will be the better side on paper, but this clash of styles could be a good game.
Irish clash of football cultures
Wexford are a narrow, possession-based football team who are aggressive in the press and like to pin their opponents back. In stark contrast, Finn Harps are a rigid, compact unit who like to play on the counter and are always a danger on set-pieces. There's little doubt that this will be a battle in midfield, with Wexford trying to force turnovers, while Harps will look to absorb pressure and break quickly.
Ian Ryan has been the man in charge of Wexford since 15 May 2021 and has instilled a high-tempo, press-heavy setup that has made them very tough to play against in the Irish football system. David Rogers has been the Harps boss since 2 December 2022 and has set up his team to be pragmatic and solid in a low-block, before trying to nick goals on the break.
Harps have been in an awful slump
Harps have been in terrible form, losing five straight games. They lost 1-3 to Cobh Ramblers, 4-5 away to UCD and 0-1 at the weekend against Athlone Town. Shaunie Bradley has been the main goal threat, scoring two of their five goals in the last five, while Mikie Rowe has been Wexford's spark, netting three of his side's four in the same period.
The last three meetings in all competitions between these sides have seen Wexford win once, Harps win once and one draw. Harps won the most recent meeting in this division 1-0 at home, but Wexford won the most recent meeting at the equivalent away leg. However, the Harps have won only one of their 15 away games in the First Division 2026 so far, registering just one win, three draws and 11 defeats, so they'll be lacking confidence going into this one.
Wexford should have the edge at home
Wexford have a decent home record in the First Division 2026, winning seven, drawing three and losing four of their 14 games so far. They've scored 19 goals in 14 home matches and should have too much for the visitors on Friday. However, Harps can get chances on the attack and should be able to cause Wexford some problems.
