Louth Soccer Results: Kareem shines but Drogs held by Derry
By ArdeePost Reporter
There was drama and determination across Louth soccer this weekend, as Drogheda United battled to a draw with Derry City in the Premier Division while Dundalk took a huge step towards promotion with a comeback victory over UCD.
Drogheda United 1 – 1 Derry City (SSE Airtricity Premier Division)
Dare Kareem struck again for Drogheda United, but the home side were denied all three points as Derry City fought back to share the spoils at Sullivan & Lambe Park.
Kareem, making just his third home start, delivered another moment of brilliance. When Derry failed to clear a free-kick, Drogheda recycled the ball superbly. Conor Keeley’s knock-down found Kareem, who volleyed through a crowded box and past goalkeeper Brian Maher to put the Drogs ahead.
The goal marked his third for the club, continuing an impressive run that has made him one of Drogheda’s standout performers in recent weeks.
However, Derry responded strongly after the restart. A sweeping move involving Adam O’Reilly and Michael Duffy released Brandon Fleming on the left. His curling shot was parried by Luke Dennison, but Danny Mullen was quickest to react, slotting home the equaliser.
The Drogs pushed for a late winner, with Josh Thomas and substitute Warren Davis both going close, but Derry also had chances. Mullen was denied a second by the woodwork in the closing stages.
The point means Drogheda’s European ambitions remain alive and ensures the Premier Division title race is extended for at least another week, delaying Shamrock Rovers’ inevitable coronation.
DROGHEDA UNITED: Dennison; Bolger, Keeley, Quinn; Lambe, Brennan, Farrell (Heeney, 65), Kane; Markey; Thomas (Stretton, 87), Kareem (Davis, 70).
DERRY CITY: Maher; Cann, Connolly (Dummigan, 79), Stott; Boyce, Diallo, Winchester, Fleming; O’Reilly, Duffy; Mullen (White, 86).
Referee: Rob Harvey
Dundalk 3 – 2 UCD (SSE Airtricity First Division)
At Oriel Park, Dundalk produced a stirring comeback to edge UCD 3–2 and move within touching distance of promotion.
Louis Dignam put The Students ahead midway through the first half, finishing neatly past Peter Cherrie. But Dundalk’s response was swift and decisive. Two penalties from Gbemi Arubi – one in each half – swung momentum in their favour.
Eoin Kenny then headed home his seventh goal in as many matches to give Ciaran Kilduff’s side breathing room. A late header from Jake Doyle set up a tense finale, but Dundalk held firm to secure a priceless victory.
The result maintains their six-point cushion at the top of the table, meaning just four points from their next two games will guarantee promotion before a potential title decider against second-placed Cobh Ramblers on the final night.
With the Oriel crowd in full voice, Dundalk’s resilience once again shone through, leaving their supporters dreaming of a swift return to top-flight football.
📌 Louth soccer fans can look forward to a thrilling run-in, with Drogheda chasing Europe and Dundalk closing in on promotion.