Drogheda face Shamrock Rovers in FAI Cup quarter-final
By ArdeePost Reporter
Holders Drogheda United have been handed a tough test in the Sports Direct FAI Cup quarter-finals after being paired with Shamrock Rovers in this afternoon’s draw.
Kevin Doherty’s side, currently sitting third in the Premier Division, will have to overcome the champions-elect if they are to keep their grip on the trophy they lifted last season. Stephen Bradley’s Hoops are chasing a domestic double and will go into the tie as favourites, though Drogheda’s strong campaign to date suggests they will be no pushovers.
The tie is set to be played on the weekend ending 14 September, with RTÉ Sport to broadcast two of the quarter-final fixtures live as well as both semi-finals and the final.
Elsewhere in the men’s competition, St Patrick’s Athletic will host Galway United in another all-Premier Division clash, with old rivals Stephen Kenny and John Caulfield meeting once again. Cork City face a long journey north to take on Finn Harps, while Sligo Rovers will travel to Mounthawk Park for a first-ever meeting with Kerry FC.
The women’s FAI Cup semi-final draw also threw up some intriguing ties, with Shamrock Rovers welcoming Athlone Town to Tallaght Stadium, while Bohemians will host Treaty United.
Men’s FAI Cup quarter-finals:
- Kerry FC v Sligo Rovers
- Drogheda United v Shamrock Rovers
- Finn Harps v Cork City
- St Patrick’s Athletic v Galway United
Women’s FAI Cup semi-finals:
- Shamrock Rovers v Athlone Town
- Bohemians v Treaty United
Meanwhile, Dundalk FC have welcomed back a familiar face with the return of Dane Massey. The 37-year-old, who enjoyed a trophy-laden spell at Oriel Park from 2013 to 2020, was introduced to the squad by manager Ciarán Kilduff on Friday.
Massey made 291 appearances and scored 24 goals for the Lilywhites, winning 15 honours including five league titles, three FAI Cups and three League Cups. Having retired at Bray Wanderers last year, he will now lend his experience as Dundalk look to secure promotion from the First Division in their final nine games of the season.
The Dubliner remains a fan favourite among Dundalk supporters and will be warmly welcomed back as the club pushes for a return to the Premier Division.