Finn Harps will be hoping to end a run of four straight league defeats when they make the long trip to the south of the country to face Wexford Youths. 
Peter Hutton opted to make a number of changes to his side for last week’s visit of Mervue United after two tough clashes with Drogheda United in the space of three days in the quarter finals of the FAI cup.
Harps delivered a disappointing performance however as a number of players that were brought into the side failed to perform and Harps suffered a 2-0 defeat to high flying Mervue.
Hutton said, “The Mervue game was our penultimate home game and I felt given the nature of the two fairly physical Drogheda games it was an opportunity to freshen things up and give some of the younger players a taste of what it’s like to play competitively within the First Division.
“Unfortunately we fell behind early on when a shot deflected off Keith Cowan’s shoulder and into the net.
“We recovered though and got back into the game but honestly I thought we were a little flat throughout.
“I appreciate that the boys were gutted after our exit from the FAI Cup but that’s no excuse for our performance.
“We had spoken about maintaining the standards set in the Drogheda game the previous week but we never reached the same level of intensity nor focus demonstrated then.
“Overall whilst it was good for some of the young players to get some experience it is disappointing to lose the game.
“Mervue are obviously still hoping to gain a play-off spot so lack no motivation whereas some of our boys seemed to be feeling a little sorry for themselves and the difference in mentality was evident.
Hutton will be hoping for a change of attitude in the players selected this week and has reminded his players that many within the squad are playing for their futures as Hutton already has one eye on next season.
“We go to Wexford now on Friday and whilst we know it is a difficult venue to get anything, we should hold no fear, as essentially we now have nothing to lose.
“The players are fully aware that this stage of the season is an opportunity to prove your worth in regard to next season and I’m sure those selected will give a good account of themselves.