Local Derby Preview: Dundalk vs. Drogheda United
The bottom two teams in the League of Ireland Premier Division are set to clash on Friday evening as Dundalk hosts Drogheda United at Oriel Park.
Dundalk currently sits in ninth place with 19 points from 23 league matches, while Drogheda United is just behind in tenth with 17 points from the same number of games.
Dundalk, 14-time League of Ireland Premier Division champions, have had a disappointing season, languishing in ninth position with a record of four wins, seven draws, and 12 defeats. Their recent form includes back-to-back losses to Waterford and Shamrock Rovers, and they have only collected 14 points from 11 home games.
Despite their struggles, Dundalk have won five of their last seven matches against Drogheda United. The visitors, who have the worst away record in the league, have failed to win any of their 12 away matches this season, managing just three draws and nine losses, and conceding 26 goals.
Drogheda United, the 2007 league champions, are at the bottom of the table and have struggled defensively, conceding 43 goals in 23 matches. Kevin Doherty’s side recently drew 1-1 with Shelbourne but have not won a match since early May, when they secured a 2-1 victory over Dundalk.
Team News
Dundalk will be without Andy Boyle, Jamie Gullan, and Dara Keane due to injuries. Gullan’s absence is particularly significant as he is the team’s top scorer this season with five goals in all competitions. Eoin Kenny, with one goal in 16 appearances, is expected to lead the attack, supported by Paul Doyle in an advanced midfield role.
Drogheda United will miss Jethren Barr, while Zishim Bawa, Gary Deegan, and Aaron McNally are also likely to be sidelined. Douglas James-Taylor, who scored on his debut last time out, is set to lead the line, with Warren Davis and Darragh Markey providing support from midfield and wide positions, respectively.
Dundalk possible starting lineup:
Munro; Davies, Johnson, Faulkner, Keogh; Horgan, Mountney, Benson, Doyle, Hakiki; Kenny
Drogheda United possible starting lineup:
Wogan; Quinn, Webster, Keaney, Kane; Foley, Heeney, Ahui, Davis; Markey; James-Taylor
Ardee Post Prediction: Dundalk 2-1 Drogheda United
Despite Dundalk’s disappointing season, Drogheda United’s struggles, especially their defensive issues, suggest that Dundalk should have enough quality to secure all three points in this tightly contested match.