Athlone Town host Cork City on Friday, Oct 2 at 8:45 PM in a top-four clash that could have significant title implications. Both sides are separated by just 1 point in the 1st Division, making this one of the more consequential fixtures of the season.

Athlone Town come into this fixture in red-hot form (4W from last 5). Cork City travel in good form (3W 2D 0L recently), which may hand the initiative to the hosts.

Despite playing at home, Athlone Town face a side that has dominated this fixture historically. Cork City have won 6 of 10 encounters, with 1 draws. Their last encounter ended in Athlone Town won 2–3. These two tend to produce goals — averaging 3.6 per game in recent meetings.

Verdict: This looks an evenly matched contest. Home advantage gives Athlone Town a slight edge, but Cork City are capable of causing problems. A draw would be a fair result.