Drogheda United Match Preview: Shamrock Rovers vs. Drogheda United
As Drogheda United heads to Tallaght on this evening, the Boynesiders, currently at the bottom of the table, will be looking to build on recent positive results. Despite a challenging season with just one win in their last twelve league games, the past two matches have brought a glimmer of hope for Kevin Doherty’s side.
Drogheda’s recent form at home has shown signs of improvement, with a 2-0 victory over Waterford and a spirited 2-2 draw against Bohemians. These results have offered a much-needed boost and a hint of momentum as they prepare for a tough fixture against Shamrock Rovers.
Historically, matches between these two teams have been closely contested. Last season, both encounters at Weavers Park ended in draws—a 1-1 stalemate in February and a scoreless draw in July. However, Drogheda’s last visit to Tallaght ended in a heavy 4-0 defeat. Johnny Kenny, Aaron Greene, Darragh Burns, and Josh Honohoan all found the net on a night where Drogheda was left to rue a harsh red card to Jack Keaney.
Earlier this season, Drogheda suffered a 2-0 defeat at Weavers Park with goals from Johnny Kenny and Graham Burke. Despite these setbacks, Drogheda can draw confidence from their previous victory in Tallaght in May last year, where they secured a 2-1 win thanks to goals from Freddie Draper and Dayle Rooney.
Drogheda’s formation strategy has primarily been a 4-2-3-1, used 61% of the time this season. However, in their last two matches, Doherty has opted for a 5-3-2 setup, pairing Frantz Pierrot with Douglas James-Taylor up front. This partnership has proven effective, with both players showing promising form. Pierrot, currently Drogheda’s top scorer with five goals, and James-Taylor have been instrumental in recent performances.
Shamrock Rovers’ manager Stephen Bradley has acknowledged the threat posed by Drogheda’s attacking duo. “Their two lads up top are very good,” Bradley noted. “I saw them against Waterford, and they caused real problems. They’re a handful, and with players like Ryan Brennan and Darragh Markey supporting them, we know Drogheda is dangerous off set plays. We’ll need to be aware of their strengths and exploit their weaknesses.”
Drogheda United will be without Zishim Bawa due to injury, and Aaron McNally, Gary Deegan, Jethren Barr, and James Byrne are doubtful. However, the squad will be bolstered by the return of key players and will aim to make a statement in Tallaght.
Referee Rob Hennessy will oversee the match, which kicks off at 7:45 PM. A win for Drogheda would not only provide a significant boost but also see them move level on points with Louth rivals Dundalk.
With recent performances suggesting a potential turnaround, Drogheda United will be hoping to secure a vital three points and lift themselves off the foot of the table.
