Drogheda United Gear Up to Host Dundalk in FAI Cup Showdown
Drogheda United will host rivals Dundalk in the second round of the FAI Cup on Friday night at 7.45pm in Weavers Park. This encounter comes just a week after Dundalk’s 4-2 league victory over Drogheda.
In preparation for this match, Drogheda has bolstered their squad with the addition of defender James Bolger from Swedish side Bodens BK. Bolger, a former Galway United academy player, played college soccer in the United States before signing his first professional contract in Sweden, where he made thirteen appearances.
Bolger is the fifth player to join Drogheda in the current transfer window, alongside Douglas James-Taylor, Elicha Ahui, Shane Farrell, and Luke Dennison. Despite these additions, Drogheda will be missing key players Jethren Barr, Aaron McNally, Gary Deegan, and Zishim Bawa due to injuries, with Darragh Markey also doubtful for the match.
Dundalk manager Jon Daly is aiming to lead his team to FAI Cup glory, having won the competition last year with St Patrick’s Athletic. Daly acknowledges the challenge ahead, especially in the intense atmosphere of a Louth derby.
“We’d like to go as far as we can,” Daly said on Dundalk’s website. “I’m the current holder of the FAI Cup as a manager, and I’d like to retain it. Last week’s game will have no impact on what happens on Friday night. It’s going to be a totally different game with its own challenges.”
Dundalk will have new signing Aodh Dervin available, but Paul Doyle remains out due to injury. The match will be officiated by referee Damien MacGraith.
Drogheda United
• Injured: Jethren Barr, Aaron McNally, Gary Deegan, Zishim Bawa
• Doubtful: Darragh Markey
Dundalk
• Injured: Paul Doyle
• Doubtful: None
