Athlone Town to come up against ex-manager in FAI Cup

Athlone Town have been drawn away to Premier Division opposition in the next round of the Sports Direct Men's FAI Cup.

Waterford FC, managed by former Athlone boss Keith Long, will host the Midlanders in the third round fixture, which is due to be played on the week ending Sunday, August 18.

Athlone booked their place in the third round by defeating Ringmahon Rangers 1-0 at home last Friday night.

The non-league visitors put in a battling performance in Lissywollen, but conceded the only goal of the game early in the second half when Brian Torre headed home for the Town.

They will now face a stiff test in the South East against Waterford, who have been performing impressively since their promotion to the top flight last year. Waterford currently sit in the third spot in the Premier Division, behind Derry City and Shelbourne, and ahead of reigning champions Shamrock Rovers.

Athlone are also having a very positive league campaign this year, and are in second place, behind Cork City, in the First Division.

Waterford manager Keith Long was in charge of Athlone a decade ago, during the 2014 season, which was the last time the club was in the Premier Division. He then joined Bohemians at the end of the 2014 campaign.