Moran seeks clarity as Athlone wind-down league campaign

ATHLONE Town wrap-up a largely disappointing season this Saturday, when they face promotion hopefuls Waterford Utd at Lissywoolen (7.45pm). Athlone's season has petered-out in miserable fashion, and they have failed to win in the last 13 matches. Padraig Moran took the reins from Mike Kerley for the final two months of the season, but results have not improved, as Athlone continue a slide which began following the mid-season break. This week, Moran told the Westmeath Independent he's still interested in being Athlone manager next season, but urged the club board to act quickly in making an appointment for 2013. "I'd like the opportunity to put my own stamp on it," said Moran. "The squad needs a complete overhaul. Now is the time to set-up new signings, and put a proper pre-season plan together. You can't get away with doing that in January," he warned. Last weekend, Waterford's hope of automatic promotion disappeared when they were suffered a shock defeat at home to Mervue Utd, while Athlone were beaten at Wexford Youths. Moran has Joe Woods suspended after his sending-off last weekend, while injuries to Stephen Last and Noel McGee keep them both out. Goalkeeper Pat Jennings, who took a heavy knock in last weekend's game, is struggling with a rib injury, while Eric Molloy is also out injured with medial knee ligament damage. Niall Scullion is also unavailable due to work commitments, but Val Feeney returns to the squad after missing the last two games due to international duty with the Republic of Ireland U17 squad. With a promotion play-off against Longford Town to come, Waterford could decide to field a weakened team against Athlone. Waterford has an almost full panel to select from, apart from long-term injury absentee Gary Dunphy, and Seamus Long, who serves a suspension.