UCD heaped more pressure on Tommy Dunne last night, as they continued their unbeaten streak against Cork City in the UCD Bowl by winning 3-0.
The Students shell shocked the visitors after just 35 seconds. Cork kicked off , and were immediately dispossessed, and UCD were away. Sean Russell broke down the left wing, and pulled it back across goal, where Robbie Creevy's shot was blocked by Darren Dennehy. Unfortunately for Cork fans, it fell to UCD's top scorer in Dave McMillan who had the simplest of tasks to finish into an empty net.
City were rocked, and could so easily have been 2-0 down on 11 minutes, when Russell's shot was cleared off the goal line by Dennehy. It was a wake-up call for the Rebel Army. But they struggled to break down the UCD defence, Daryl Horgan creating their first real opportunity when he nodded straight at Mark McGinley with 23 minutes played. It was promising for the Leesiders, who were starting to get into a flow. Shane Duggan volleyed over from the edge of the box, and should've done better with a similar effort minutes later. Johnny Dunleavy then fluffed a glorious chance to equalize just before halftime, when he headed wide from inside the 6 yard box.
8 minutes into the second half, and after a cagey start, McMillan struck again. Duggan lost out in the air to Robbie Benson, and the ball dropped for McMillan. Given a lot of time and space, and with no real pressure being applied, he thumped it goalwards, and watched as it dipped over Mark McNulty and into the top corner, sending the UCD ultras delirious.
It knocked the stuffing out of the away side, who never really recovered after it. Gearóid Morrissey cut inside Gareth Matthews twice, only to shoot wide on both occasions, and Danny Murphy linked up with Daryl Kavanagh for the former to unleash a shot, only for McGinley to parry. UCD on the other hand, were pushing forward. Sub Samir Belhout and Benson both had shots which went narrowly over, and UCD would get the goal they were looking for with 20 minutes to play.
Belhout's corner went to the far post, where an unmarked Hugh Douglas was able to power a header into the net, despite the best efforts of McNulty, who got a hand to it.
Martin Russell knew the job was done, and UCD sat back, while Cork were demoralised. Neither side had any noteworthy chances after that, apart from Belhout linking with Barry McCabe to shoot wide.
Adriano Reale brought the game to a close, and the Cork City fans were displeased with both team and management. They are well aware that with the visit of the champions next week, they could so easily be dragged into the relegation dogfight. For UCD, it was a promising result, and their 6 year unbeaten streak at home to Cork City rolls on.
Attendance : 170
On The Sidelines' Man Of The Match: Hugh Douglas (UCD)
The defender had Daryl Kavanagh in his pocket all night long, and capped off a good performance with a fine goal.
Saturday 29 June 2013
Shelbourne 0-2 Sligo Rovers
Shelbourne 0-2 Sligo Rovers (28-6-13)
By Aidan Geraghty @AidanGeraghty5
The league champions took home 3 points from Tolka Park on Friday night after a 2-0 win in what was a very dull encounter. The evening was, however, lightened up by An Briogáid Dearg's tenth anniversary celebrations which were enjoyed by both sets of supporters.
The Westerners almost took the lead after half an hour, Kieran Djilali found Danny North in the box but he couldn't send the ball past Niall Burdon in the Reds' goal. Shels had some chances of their own as misfiring Philly Hughes wasted a few not-so-clear cut opportunities. The first came from a wayward Robert Bayly cross, he sent the ball across the goal but the rotund striker couldn't get his foot to it.
Rovers had the first opportunity to score in the second half, Kieran Djilali took a shot on the rebound from a free kick but he only met long-serving Redsman Ian Ryan who cleared the danger. Jeff Henderson made a last-ditch challenge to deny Robert Bayly a goal. However, the opening goal went to the visitors after Ross Gaynor's corner kick was spectacularly cleared by the young French goalkeeper. He couldn't keep out Séamus Conneely's second time shot, though.
As has been the case all season, Shels' confidence had been drained by the opening goal and they were lucky the floodgates didn't open. On 79 minutes, Danny North delivered the ball and met his compatriot, Djilali, in the box who had been afforded too much space by the hosts' defence and the Londoner slotted it home calmly. Niall Burdon was visibly fuming at his defence for their lacklustre effort.
Shelbourne had a couple of chances before the end, Philly Hughes had an effort blocked by Jeff Henderson in what could possibly be his last deed as a Shelbourne player and Graham Gartland headed over from Seán Brennan's corner.
Shelbourne: Burdon; Flynn, Ryan, Gartland, Shortall (Cornwall); Tinnelly, Cronin, Bayly, Brennan (Hanlon), O'Connor (Leech); Hughes.
Sligo Rovers: Rogers; Keane, Peers, Henderson, Davoren; Djilali, Cawley, Conneely, Ndo (Martin), Gaynor (Lynch); North (McMillan).
Attendance: 1214.
OnTheSidelines' man of the match: Joseph Ndo: the Shelbourne great came back to haunt his former side and turned back the clock to show some of the greatness that won him the PFAI Player of the Year award at Tolka Park in 2006. However, picking a winner was extremely difficult as both sides had very poor games.
By Aidan Geraghty @AidanGeraghty5
The league champions took home 3 points from Tolka Park on Friday night after a 2-0 win in what was a very dull encounter. The evening was, however, lightened up by An Briogáid Dearg's tenth anniversary celebrations which were enjoyed by both sets of supporters.
The Westerners almost took the lead after half an hour, Kieran Djilali found Danny North in the box but he couldn't send the ball past Niall Burdon in the Reds' goal. Shels had some chances of their own as misfiring Philly Hughes wasted a few not-so-clear cut opportunities. The first came from a wayward Robert Bayly cross, he sent the ball across the goal but the rotund striker couldn't get his foot to it.
Rovers had the first opportunity to score in the second half, Kieran Djilali took a shot on the rebound from a free kick but he only met long-serving Redsman Ian Ryan who cleared the danger. Jeff Henderson made a last-ditch challenge to deny Robert Bayly a goal. However, the opening goal went to the visitors after Ross Gaynor's corner kick was spectacularly cleared by the young French goalkeeper. He couldn't keep out Séamus Conneely's second time shot, though.
As has been the case all season, Shels' confidence had been drained by the opening goal and they were lucky the floodgates didn't open. On 79 minutes, Danny North delivered the ball and met his compatriot, Djilali, in the box who had been afforded too much space by the hosts' defence and the Londoner slotted it home calmly. Niall Burdon was visibly fuming at his defence for their lacklustre effort.
Shelbourne had a couple of chances before the end, Philly Hughes had an effort blocked by Jeff Henderson in what could possibly be his last deed as a Shelbourne player and Graham Gartland headed over from Seán Brennan's corner.
Shelbourne: Burdon; Flynn, Ryan, Gartland, Shortall (Cornwall); Tinnelly, Cronin, Bayly, Brennan (Hanlon), O'Connor (Leech); Hughes.
Sligo Rovers: Rogers; Keane, Peers, Henderson, Davoren; Djilali, Cawley, Conneely, Ndo (Martin), Gaynor (Lynch); North (McMillan).
Attendance: 1214.
OnTheSidelines' man of the match: Joseph Ndo: the Shelbourne great came back to haunt his former side and turned back the clock to show some of the greatness that won him the PFAI Player of the Year award at Tolka Park in 2006. However, picking a winner was extremely difficult as both sides had very poor games.
Match Report: Derry City 2-1 Bohemians
A balmy June evening saw the visit of struggling side Bohemians attempting to beat Derry City for the first time in 5 years on their home patch.
A difficult task for the North Dublin outfit who have been largely better away from home. However, a team that seems to have a knack for conceding early goals continued that run of tradition in the 8th minute.
A beautifully weighted cross from right back Simon Madden picked out Patrick McEleney who curled the ball with precision into the back of the net which left Bohs 'keeper Dean Delany scrambling.
It was the wake up call that Bohemians needed and the away side battled hard for possession. It was still Derry that had the more clear cut of chances. Paddy Kavanagh's shot on 15 minutes produced a straight forward save from Dean Delany.
On the stroke of half time, Bohs' grit and determination paid off. Keith Buckley's cross found Ryan McEvoy and when he turned the ball back into Devanney's feet, he was presented a gift and duly delivered, striking the ball into the roof of the net from four yards out which sent the small but boisterous away fans into raptures.
Gypsies manager Aaron Callaghan would have certainly been delighted with his side's first half performance and set them up accordingly to go on and take the game to Derry who for all of their quality, didn't really take themselves out of first gear.
Declan Devine would certainly have been concerned about his teams lackluster performance however, I'm sure he had a big smile on his face when a beautiful piece of skill from Simon Madden left Michael Barker for dead and striker Michael Rafter coolly slotted home to give the Candystripes a bit of breathing space.
From here on out it was Bohemians who put Derry City to the sword with some excellent wide play from tricky winger Karl Moore who just couldn't pick out any of his team mates due to some resolute defending from the Derry City back line.
Perhaps Bohs' best chance to grab an equaliser came from Dave Scully who robbed possession and, after making good ground running into the box, he squared the ball kindly for Devanney. His pass however, was over hit and when Devanney turned across goal, Moore had a second bite of the cherry but the outstretched arm of Doherty kept the score at 2-1.
It stayed that way until the final whistle with many relieved sighs coming from the home fans. It means that Derry City keep pressure on league leaders St. Pats while Bohemians can take many positives from the game as they attempt to stave off fears of relegation.
Derry City: Gerard Doherty; Simon Madden, Shane McEleney, Stewart Greacen, Barry McNamee; Mark Griffin (Michael Duffy 57), Ruaidhri Higgins (Barry Molloy 68), Patrick McEleney; Patrick Kavanagh (Sean Houston 71), Michael Rafter.
Subs not used: Ryan McBride, James Gallagher, Ryan Curran, Raymond Foy.
Booked: none
Bohemians: Dean Delaney; Michael Barker, Roberto Lopes, Luke Byrne, Ciaran Nagle (Chris Lyons 77); Karl Moore, Ryan McEvoy, Keith Buckley, Kevin Devanney (Andy Mulligan 46); Dave Scully, Shane Murray (Kevin O'Leary 88).
Subs not used: Daragh Raynor, Michael Scott, Gregg Murray, Santiago Falbo.
Booked: Karl Moore (52), Michael Barker (65).
Referee: Padraigh Sutto
Attendance: 1,300 (estimate)
Man Of The Match: Simon Madden
---
Shane Saunders
Twitter - @ShaneSaunders88
A difficult task for the North Dublin outfit who have been largely better away from home. However, a team that seems to have a knack for conceding early goals continued that run of tradition in the 8th minute.
A beautifully weighted cross from right back Simon Madden picked out Patrick McEleney who curled the ball with precision into the back of the net which left Bohs 'keeper Dean Delany scrambling.
It was the wake up call that Bohemians needed and the away side battled hard for possession. It was still Derry that had the more clear cut of chances. Paddy Kavanagh's shot on 15 minutes produced a straight forward save from Dean Delany.
On the stroke of half time, Bohs' grit and determination paid off. Keith Buckley's cross found Ryan McEvoy and when he turned the ball back into Devanney's feet, he was presented a gift and duly delivered, striking the ball into the roof of the net from four yards out which sent the small but boisterous away fans into raptures.
Gypsies manager Aaron Callaghan would have certainly been delighted with his side's first half performance and set them up accordingly to go on and take the game to Derry who for all of their quality, didn't really take themselves out of first gear.
Declan Devine would certainly have been concerned about his teams lackluster performance however, I'm sure he had a big smile on his face when a beautiful piece of skill from Simon Madden left Michael Barker for dead and striker Michael Rafter coolly slotted home to give the Candystripes a bit of breathing space.
From here on out it was Bohemians who put Derry City to the sword with some excellent wide play from tricky winger Karl Moore who just couldn't pick out any of his team mates due to some resolute defending from the Derry City back line.
Perhaps Bohs' best chance to grab an equaliser came from Dave Scully who robbed possession and, after making good ground running into the box, he squared the ball kindly for Devanney. His pass however, was over hit and when Devanney turned across goal, Moore had a second bite of the cherry but the outstretched arm of Doherty kept the score at 2-1.
It stayed that way until the final whistle with many relieved sighs coming from the home fans. It means that Derry City keep pressure on league leaders St. Pats while Bohemians can take many positives from the game as they attempt to stave off fears of relegation.
Derry City: Gerard Doherty; Simon Madden, Shane McEleney, Stewart Greacen, Barry McNamee; Mark Griffin (Michael Duffy 57), Ruaidhri Higgins (Barry Molloy 68), Patrick McEleney; Patrick Kavanagh (Sean Houston 71), Michael Rafter.
Subs not used: Ryan McBride, James Gallagher, Ryan Curran, Raymond Foy.
Booked: none
Bohemians: Dean Delaney; Michael Barker, Roberto Lopes, Luke Byrne, Ciaran Nagle (Chris Lyons 77); Karl Moore, Ryan McEvoy, Keith Buckley, Kevin Devanney (Andy Mulligan 46); Dave Scully, Shane Murray (Kevin O'Leary 88).
Subs not used: Daragh Raynor, Michael Scott, Gregg Murray, Santiago Falbo.
Booked: Karl Moore (52), Michael Barker (65).
Referee: Padraigh Sutto
Attendance: 1,300 (estimate)
Man Of The Match: Simon Madden
---
Shane Saunders
Twitter - @ShaneSaunders88
Friday 28 June 2013
Limerick V Dundalk, Thomond Pk Kick off 7.45P.m Saturday 29th June
After a fortnight off for the two sides in the mid season break, Dundalk travel south down to Thomond Park as they hope to keep their impressive away record away to Limerick.
Limerick sit 7th in the league on 19 points a point behind Munster rivals Cork City with a game in hand over them.
Dundalk however are flying high near the top and following a big win over St. Pats in Oriel Park that has entered them into the Title race. They could go 6 points behind league leaders St.Pats and 3 behind Champions Sligo Rovers should they get the win.
Limerick have only won 4 games this season compared to the Lilywhites' 10 wins out of the seventeen games both sides played. Dundalk in particular have a great away record with 7 wins from 8 with impressive wins away to Sligo Rovers and St.Pats.
Both sides played an entertaining 2-2 draw earlier in the season in Oriel Park. Limerick had led 2-0 through goals from Bossekotta and Shaun Kelly, however with twenty minutes to go, Dundalk decided they didn't want Limerick leaving with anything and came back to a hard fought 2-2 draw through Massey and Mulvenna.
Team News:
For Limerick Jeffrey Judge and Stephen Bradley are both out due to suspension. Pat Purcell(ankle) and Steven McGann(broken foot) are still out with long term injuries. Both Rory Gaffney and Craig Curran are expected back having recovered from injuries.
Dundalk are missing Stephen O'Donnell and Patrick Hoban through suspensions and are also without the injured duo of John Mountney (Ankle) and Keith Ward (Knee). Stephen McDonnell is doubtful with a knee injury and will be assessed before the game.
Recent form:
Last 6 League Limerick FC: WLDDWW
Last 6 League Dundalk FC: LWLWWW
Referee: Tom Connolly
Verdict: Away win.
Dundalk will need to continue their fine away form to keep up te pace with the leading pack and I expect them to come away with all three points.
By Daniel O'Connell
Limerick sit 7th in the league on 19 points a point behind Munster rivals Cork City with a game in hand over them.
Dundalk however are flying high near the top and following a big win over St. Pats in Oriel Park that has entered them into the Title race. They could go 6 points behind league leaders St.Pats and 3 behind Champions Sligo Rovers should they get the win.
Limerick have only won 4 games this season compared to the Lilywhites' 10 wins out of the seventeen games both sides played. Dundalk in particular have a great away record with 7 wins from 8 with impressive wins away to Sligo Rovers and St.Pats.
Both sides played an entertaining 2-2 draw earlier in the season in Oriel Park. Limerick had led 2-0 through goals from Bossekotta and Shaun Kelly, however with twenty minutes to go, Dundalk decided they didn't want Limerick leaving with anything and came back to a hard fought 2-2 draw through Massey and Mulvenna.
Team News:
For Limerick Jeffrey Judge and Stephen Bradley are both out due to suspension. Pat Purcell(ankle) and Steven McGann(broken foot) are still out with long term injuries. Both Rory Gaffney and Craig Curran are expected back having recovered from injuries.
Dundalk are missing Stephen O'Donnell and Patrick Hoban through suspensions and are also without the injured duo of John Mountney (Ankle) and Keith Ward (Knee). Stephen McDonnell is doubtful with a knee injury and will be assessed before the game.
Recent form:
Last 6 League Limerick FC: WLDDWW
Last 6 League Dundalk FC: LWLWWW
Referee: Tom Connolly
Verdict: Away win.
Dundalk will need to continue their fine away form to keep up te pace with the leading pack and I expect them to come away with all three points.
By Daniel O'Connell
Drogheda United take on Shamrock Rovers in a battle of wits tonight at Hunky Dory Park.
Preview by Niamh Whelan (@NiamhWhelanX)
After the mid-season break, the Airtricity League is back in action in Hunky Dory Park where Shamrock Rovers travel to Drogheda United in a mid-table clash. This will be the first time the two sides have met since Rovers defeated Drogheda by a whopping 7-1 in the Setanta Sports Cup Final in May.
Drogheda go into the game without many key players due to suspension and injuries. Alan Byrne, Alan McNally, Ryan Brennan and David Cassidy are all suspended for tonight's game while Eric Foley and Phillip Hand receive treatment for injuries.
Mick Cooke had this to say in the build up to tonight's match, “It’s a good game to re-start the league with; I said from earlier on in the season that you should never write off Shamrock Rovers. Trevor has a big squad but I think they have found their form in the last few weeks. We went up there earlier in the season and had a 1-1 draw." He also said they are "fully focused" on tonight's game and they are taking "one game at a time."
Shamrock Rovers will be looking to close the gap as they currently lie in fifth place. Most players are available for selection however David Elebert is unable to play due to injury and Jason McGuinness is a doubt. Mark Quigley is available for selection as he trained both this week and last week having recovered from his recent injury.
Trevor Croly seems confident and happy to be back after the break: “The rest has re-energised everyone. We were playing well and winning games going into the break so to a point we would almost have liked to have played on. But it is always healthy to have that little period of rest if you can." Trevor Croly is aware that it is going to be a tough game for both sides "Drogheda are a good side and will come back at us."
Both teams will be looking for a win but unfortunately, a win for either side won't have massive implications to the league table. Kick off is at 7:45pm at Hunky Dory Park, Match Report to follow.
Drogheda United take on Shamrock Rovers in a battle of wits tonight at Hunky Dory Park.
MATCH PREVIEW: Shelbourne -v- Sligo Rovers 28/06/13
Shelbourne and Sligo Rovers go head to head tonight in Tolka Park in what is both sides first game after the mid-season break. Shelbourne come into the game on the back of an improved run of form which has seen them win three out of their last four games. With wins against Bohemians (league) UCD (LS Cup) and Bandon AFC (FAI Cup). Rovers picked up a very important 5-2 victory over UCD last time out, and will hope this is stepping stone back to the form that seen them fly out of the blocks at the start of the season. Last time these two sides met was in April when two strikes from the Bit'o'Red's top scorer Anthony Elding gave the champions a 2-0 win at the showgrounds.
TEAM NEWS:
Shelbourne: Johnny McDonnel is expected to give new signing Gareth O'Connor a chance in tonights showdown. Shels will hope that O'Connor's experience will help their young sqaud over the second half of the season. However Shelbourne are without Dean Kelly (Hamstring), and Paul Crowley (Hip), through injury. Jack Memery and Stephen Hurley are both suspended after picking up four yellow cards. But there is good news as Shels welcome back Brian Shorthall, Glen Cronin, Robert Bayly and Rob Cornwall from injury.
Sligo Rovers: The champions will be without top scorer Anthony Elding who is serving the third game of his four match ban. They will also be without Raffaelle Cretaro (Hamstring), Evan McMillan (knee), Danny Ventre (Leg), with injury and Pascal Millian who is currently on international duty with Haiti. Lee Lynch trained on Thursday, and a late decision will be made on whether he is fit enough to start.
KICK OFF: 8PM
VENUE: Tolka Park
REFEREE: Neil Doyle
TEAM NEWS:
Shelbourne: Johnny McDonnel is expected to give new signing Gareth O'Connor a chance in tonights showdown. Shels will hope that O'Connor's experience will help their young sqaud over the second half of the season. However Shelbourne are without Dean Kelly (Hamstring), and Paul Crowley (Hip), through injury. Jack Memery and Stephen Hurley are both suspended after picking up four yellow cards. But there is good news as Shels welcome back Brian Shorthall, Glen Cronin, Robert Bayly and Rob Cornwall from injury.
Sligo Rovers: The champions will be without top scorer Anthony Elding who is serving the third game of his four match ban. They will also be without Raffaelle Cretaro (Hamstring), Evan McMillan (knee), Danny Ventre (Leg), with injury and Pascal Millian who is currently on international duty with Haiti. Lee Lynch trained on Thursday, and a late decision will be made on whether he is fit enough to start.
KICK OFF: 8PM
VENUE: Tolka Park
REFEREE: Neil Doyle
Match preview: Waterford United v Finn Harps
Match preview: Waterford United v Finn Harps.
Kick off: 7:45 at the Regional Sports Center.
After a short break league of Ireland football returns on Friday night when in form Waterford United will host out of form Finn Harps in what should be a close game in one of the tightest first divisions in years.
Waterford have won their last three league games, a win at home to Salthill Devon and wins away to Cobh Ramblers and Athlone Town proving that they are viable promotion contenders, after a poor start to the season it seems that Waterford are starting to build momentum and with a strong squad and some talented players this could spell trouble for the rest of the league. Despite all of this a lot of off the field problems at Waterford have overshadowed their good recent form but the players most put all that to one side come Friday night. The likes of Ben Ryan who has scored a remarkable four goals in his last two games, Paudie Quinn and Vinny Sullivan will all need to be on form if Waterford are to secure the three points on Friday night.
For Finn Harps things couldn't be any different, they sat second in the league just a few weeks ago but three league defeats on the bounce at the hands of Wexford Youths, Athlone Town and Salthill Devon have left the Ballybofey men languishing in third from bottom in the division but they are still only four points off second placed Athlone and a win on Friday would see them climb above Waterford. The 2-1 defeat in Galway was the most disappointing and the disappointment was evident amongst the players, coaching staff and fans. Its no coincidence that this recent run off bad from has been in timing with star striker Sean McCarron getting injured but the Harps are hoping that their top scorer (eight in all competitions) will be back firing on all cylinders come Friday night. If Finn Harps can get McCarron, McHugh and the central defense of McMonagle and Cowan playing on form again then this poor run will surely be turned around sooner rather than later.
Stats:
Since Finn Harps returned to the First Division in 2009, Waterford United have lost just two of the 15 games between the sides.
Finn Harps have taken six points from four unbeaten games at the RSC under Peter Hutton, and Waterford have won three of their four games at Ballbofey under Paul O’Brien. So both sides preform better away from home in these ties.
But Waterford have not beaten Harps at home since a 1-0 win in March of 2011, Willie John Kiely with the only goal of the game on that day.
injuries:
Waterford will have a near full strength squad to chose from with Daragh Walshe suspended and new loan signing Paddy Barrett unavailable until next weeks game.
Finn Harps will be without Ciaran Coll who has an angle injury, Damien McNulty who is also injured and Tommy Bonnar who is suspended whilst Gary Merritt is doubtful.
the referee is Kevin O'Regan and the match odds are: Waterford United evens; Draw 9/4; Finn Harps 12/5.
Kick off: 7:45 at the Regional Sports Center.
After a short break league of Ireland football returns on Friday night when in form Waterford United will host out of form Finn Harps in what should be a close game in one of the tightest first divisions in years.
Waterford have won their last three league games, a win at home to Salthill Devon and wins away to Cobh Ramblers and Athlone Town proving that they are viable promotion contenders, after a poor start to the season it seems that Waterford are starting to build momentum and with a strong squad and some talented players this could spell trouble for the rest of the league. Despite all of this a lot of off the field problems at Waterford have overshadowed their good recent form but the players most put all that to one side come Friday night. The likes of Ben Ryan who has scored a remarkable four goals in his last two games, Paudie Quinn and Vinny Sullivan will all need to be on form if Waterford are to secure the three points on Friday night.
For Finn Harps things couldn't be any different, they sat second in the league just a few weeks ago but three league defeats on the bounce at the hands of Wexford Youths, Athlone Town and Salthill Devon have left the Ballybofey men languishing in third from bottom in the division but they are still only four points off second placed Athlone and a win on Friday would see them climb above Waterford. The 2-1 defeat in Galway was the most disappointing and the disappointment was evident amongst the players, coaching staff and fans. Its no coincidence that this recent run off bad from has been in timing with star striker Sean McCarron getting injured but the Harps are hoping that their top scorer (eight in all competitions) will be back firing on all cylinders come Friday night. If Finn Harps can get McCarron, McHugh and the central defense of McMonagle and Cowan playing on form again then this poor run will surely be turned around sooner rather than later.
Stats:
Since Finn Harps returned to the First Division in 2009, Waterford United have lost just two of the 15 games between the sides.
Finn Harps have taken six points from four unbeaten games at the RSC under Peter Hutton, and Waterford have won three of their four games at Ballbofey under Paul O’Brien. So both sides preform better away from home in these ties.
But Waterford have not beaten Harps at home since a 1-0 win in March of 2011, Willie John Kiely with the only goal of the game on that day.
injuries:
Waterford will have a near full strength squad to chose from with Daragh Walshe suspended and new loan signing Paddy Barrett unavailable until next weeks game.
Finn Harps will be without Ciaran Coll who has an angle injury, Damien McNulty who is also injured and Tommy Bonnar who is suspended whilst Gary Merritt is doubtful.
the referee is Kevin O'Regan and the match odds are: Waterford United evens; Draw 9/4; Finn Harps 12/5.
Thursday 27 June 2013
Students aim to give Cork a lesson, as Duggan looks to haunt former club again
David Kent (@Kento180) previews.
UCD look to put clear daylight between themselves and bottom-placed Shelbourne on Friday night, when they welcome Cork City to the UCD Bowl.
UCD
Things have not been going well recently for the Students. 21 goals conceded in 5 games,including 10 in the last two, sees Martin Russell's men sitting in the relegation playoff position, level on points with Bohemians, but with the worst goal difference in the Premier Division. Their last win in the league came in Oriel Park against Dundalk when they were on the right side of a 3-2 scoreline
Speaking to the club's website, Russell is hoping his team can capitalize on the break
UCD look to put clear daylight between themselves and bottom-placed Shelbourne on Friday night, when they welcome Cork City to the UCD Bowl.
UCD
Things have not been going well recently for the Students. 21 goals conceded in 5 games,including 10 in the last two, sees Martin Russell's men sitting in the relegation playoff position, level on points with Bohemians, but with the worst goal difference in the Premier Division. Their last win in the league came in Oriel Park against Dundalk when they were on the right side of a 3-2 scoreline
Speaking to the club's website, Russell is hoping his team can capitalize on the break
"This is a great opportunity for our young team to come back
from their break and rediscover the hunger that brought us so many good
results in the league."
UCD will be without Mick Leahy and Thomas Boyle for the visit of the Leesiders, as both are sidelined through injury.
Cork City
Tommy Dunne will have been boosted by City's 1-0 victory over Drogheda United before the break, their first home win in 4 games at Turner's Cross. That win saw the Rebel Army leapfrog the Drogs, and Munster rivals Limerick, and on Friday it's a chance for them to open a gap.
Dunne told CorkCityFC.ie that he expects a battle: “We all know that UCD away is a tough match. Belfield is a tough place to go for any team, and we have not had too much success there in recent seasons, but we have to make sure that we are up and ready for the game. This is a huge game for us; we will have to fight and work extremely hard and do whatever it might take to get the three points.”
Cork will travel without the two Murrays, Dan and Kevin, as well as Colin Healy, who had a minor knee operation before the break. Danny Morrissey picked up a hamstring injury in the victory over Drogheda, while Brian Lenihan suffered a setback in his recovery from a groin injury.
Last Time: The sides met in the first week of April, with Cork reversing their fortunes with a late winner. Dave McMillan gave the basement side a 15th minute lead, when his header bobbled past Mark McNulty. City piled on the pressure, and got a deserved equalizer just before half time, when Daryl Horgan's volley deflected off namesake Kavanagh, and past McGinley. Despite a resolute defence, UCD couldn't hold onto the point, and having so often succumbed to a late goal in the preceding weeks, the tables were turned as Shane Duggan blasted home against his former club to give Cork a late winner
Stats
Since 2003, UCD have beaten Cork City only twice. Both wins came last season, both in the UCD bowl, 1-0 on the opening weekend, and a 4-1 thumping.
UCD won 6 points off Cork City last season, more than they did vs any other team!
It’s been 7 years since these sides last drew. Dan Murray cancelled out Conor Sammon’s opener in Belfield in the late stages of the 2006 season.
Cork City
Tommy Dunne will have been boosted by City's 1-0 victory over Drogheda United before the break, their first home win in 4 games at Turner's Cross. That win saw the Rebel Army leapfrog the Drogs, and Munster rivals Limerick, and on Friday it's a chance for them to open a gap.
Dunne told CorkCityFC.ie that he expects a battle: “We all know that UCD away is a tough match. Belfield is a tough place to go for any team, and we have not had too much success there in recent seasons, but we have to make sure that we are up and ready for the game. This is a huge game for us; we will have to fight and work extremely hard and do whatever it might take to get the three points.”
Cork will travel without the two Murrays, Dan and Kevin, as well as Colin Healy, who had a minor knee operation before the break. Danny Morrissey picked up a hamstring injury in the victory over Drogheda, while Brian Lenihan suffered a setback in his recovery from a groin injury.
Last Time: The sides met in the first week of April, with Cork reversing their fortunes with a late winner. Dave McMillan gave the basement side a 15th minute lead, when his header bobbled past Mark McNulty. City piled on the pressure, and got a deserved equalizer just before half time, when Daryl Horgan's volley deflected off namesake Kavanagh, and past McGinley. Despite a resolute defence, UCD couldn't hold onto the point, and having so often succumbed to a late goal in the preceding weeks, the tables were turned as Shane Duggan blasted home against his former club to give Cork a late winner
Stats
Since 2003, UCD have beaten Cork City only twice. Both wins came last season, both in the UCD bowl, 1-0 on the opening weekend, and a 4-1 thumping.
UCD won 6 points off Cork City last season, more than they did vs any other team!
It’s been 7 years since these sides last drew. Dan Murray cancelled out Conor Sammon’s opener in Belfield in the late stages of the 2006 season.
St Patrick's Athletic vs Bray Wanderers match preview. Friday, June 28 2013.
The midsummer break is now over and league leaders St Patrick's Athletic welcome Bray Wanderers to Richmond Park for their first game back.
Top of the table Pat's will be looking to claim all three points as they continue to push on in an effort to claim the title come the end of the season. Having been defeated 2-1 by Dundalk in their last game before the break, it will be interesting to see how the Saints bounce back to this with the pressure surely being higher than normal due to this defeat. Previous to this defeat, Pat's had not lost since April, once again at the hands of The Lillywhites.
Saints manager Liam Buckley has stated his side have welcomed the break with open arms, continuing to say it was a good opportunity to give his players a rest and that they will not be taking the opposition lightly.
"The break was good to give some of our lads time off and the squad is all back in training now and look rested and ready to go again. We’ll need to be at it on Friday as Bray will be tough opponents." Said Buckley as he spoke to stpatsfc.com.
“We’d a tight game in their place earlier in the season and since then they’ve been going well lately. Jason Byrne has been banging the goals in and they had good wins recently against UCD, Drogheda and Cork. We know they’ll test us and pose us problems, so we just have to apply ourselves as best we can and hopefully we’ll get a result.”
Jake Kelly, who moved to the Inchicore side from the Seagulls further enforced how his side will not be underestimating their opponents on Friday night.
“Bray came to Richmond last year and beat us 1-0 and also got a 3-3 draw against us in Bray so we don’t need any reminding of what they’re capable of. They can get goals from nothing as lads like Jason Byrne and Kieran Marty Waters are so dangerous. But we’re still confident in ourselves and we’ll be looking to win on Friday.” Kelly said as he spoke to stpatsfc.com.
The home side go into the game without Killian Brennan, who is beginning a two match suspension following his sending off in the Dundalk game.
Bray will also be looking to continue their good form as they come into Friday's clash. The Seagulls have been performing above all expectations of late having won four of their last six games.
The visitors also have the pleasure of having a full squad of players to choose from for the first time in seemingly forever. Danny and Kevin O'Connor are both available for selection following a prolonged absence before the break. Shane O'Neil and Eoin Hyland are also back in contention for a place in the squad having missed a few games prior to the summer break.
Bray's Director of Football Pat Devlin stated his happiness with how his side have recently lifted their levels of performance following an underwhelming start to the campaign.
"I am happy with our performances especially in the final weeks before the break." Commented Devlin while speaking to braywanderers.ie.
"We now need to move forward from here, we have a tough programme ahead of us and we hope to get more points on the board from the first phase. We need to push forward and we hope to strengthen the squad in the window. We are looking forward to the remainder of the season."
Bray will no doubt need to be at the top of their game in order to stand a chance on Friday. Two of the leagues form teams coming together does, however, mean the crowd at Richmond Park should be in for a treat.
Follow Conor Clancy on Twitter:@conorclancy9
Top of the table Pat's will be looking to claim all three points as they continue to push on in an effort to claim the title come the end of the season. Having been defeated 2-1 by Dundalk in their last game before the break, it will be interesting to see how the Saints bounce back to this with the pressure surely being higher than normal due to this defeat. Previous to this defeat, Pat's had not lost since April, once again at the hands of The Lillywhites.
Saints manager Liam Buckley has stated his side have welcomed the break with open arms, continuing to say it was a good opportunity to give his players a rest and that they will not be taking the opposition lightly.
"The break was good to give some of our lads time off and the squad is all back in training now and look rested and ready to go again. We’ll need to be at it on Friday as Bray will be tough opponents." Said Buckley as he spoke to stpatsfc.com.
“We’d a tight game in their place earlier in the season and since then they’ve been going well lately. Jason Byrne has been banging the goals in and they had good wins recently against UCD, Drogheda and Cork. We know they’ll test us and pose us problems, so we just have to apply ourselves as best we can and hopefully we’ll get a result.”
Jake Kelly, who moved to the Inchicore side from the Seagulls further enforced how his side will not be underestimating their opponents on Friday night.
“Bray came to Richmond last year and beat us 1-0 and also got a 3-3 draw against us in Bray so we don’t need any reminding of what they’re capable of. They can get goals from nothing as lads like Jason Byrne and Kieran Marty Waters are so dangerous. But we’re still confident in ourselves and we’ll be looking to win on Friday.” Kelly said as he spoke to stpatsfc.com.
The home side go into the game without Killian Brennan, who is beginning a two match suspension following his sending off in the Dundalk game.
Bray will also be looking to continue their good form as they come into Friday's clash. The Seagulls have been performing above all expectations of late having won four of their last six games.
The visitors also have the pleasure of having a full squad of players to choose from for the first time in seemingly forever. Danny and Kevin O'Connor are both available for selection following a prolonged absence before the break. Shane O'Neil and Eoin Hyland are also back in contention for a place in the squad having missed a few games prior to the summer break.
Bray's Director of Football Pat Devlin stated his happiness with how his side have recently lifted their levels of performance following an underwhelming start to the campaign.
"I am happy with our performances especially in the final weeks before the break." Commented Devlin while speaking to braywanderers.ie.
"We now need to move forward from here, we have a tough programme ahead of us and we hope to get more points on the board from the first phase. We need to push forward and we hope to strengthen the squad in the window. We are looking forward to the remainder of the season."
Bray will no doubt need to be at the top of their game in order to stand a chance on Friday. Two of the leagues form teams coming together does, however, mean the crowd at Richmond Park should be in for a treat.
Follow Conor Clancy on Twitter:
Tuesday 18 June 2013
What supporting Bohemians means to me.
Shane Saunders
Twitter: @ShaneSaunders88
---
I'm only a relatively recent convert to the League Of Ireland and in particular, a little club named Bohemians. In my two years of supporting this team, I've grown ever so slightly obsessed with them.
My first game at Dalymount was a Europa League tie against Slovenian outfit Olimpija Ljubljana. A friend of mine mentioned the game was on to and given the Premier League season had finished, I figured I'd go along given I'd nothing else to do.
All in all, it was a strange experience for me. It felt very alien to me sitting in the stands watching players whose names I didn't even know with fans cheering and singing about a club I had never watched before.
I'm not sure what enticed me to go back and try again but I plucked up the courage and went by myself to a league game that following Friday. Derry City were in town and Bohs lost 0-1 in the closing minutes of the game. After the game, a section of disgruntled fans were moaning and I left with the result going in one ear and right out the other.
I had bought a match programme that night and was reading about upcoming home fixtures. I sporadically returned to Dalymount for the duration of that season and looked ahead to the following season and was looking forward to starting anew from the very beginning.
The following season, I went to the first home game of the season against Shelbourne. A 2-0 loss was a tad disappointing but I continued to go back a bit more frequently. It wasn't until a certain date in July 2012 did I start to feel something for the club. My first derby against Shamrock Rovers was greeted with my first Bohemians jersey that day. I'd never seen or heard an atmosphere quite like it in Dalymount that day. A four nil thrashing of fierce rivals is something special and I found myself jumping and screaming like a lunatic for every goal. The full time whistle saw me chanting songs I'd only picked up that day and loved every minute of it. It was this moment when I felt like I belonged to something.
Fast forward to the 2013 season. I introduced my wallet to a Bohemians season ticket and the first time I've started going to away games.
I still follow Newcastle United and have done for years but live football is something I just can't get enough of.
It's not just the games that I enjoy.
It's the craic in the bar beforehand and listening to stories about the history of Dalymount and the players that have come and gone that have left their mark.
It's the journey to and from away fixtures with warm beer, off key singing, spontaneous chants and cheering on your team regardless of the scoreline.
It's the ecstatic last minute winners/equalisers and the crushing defeats.
It's the things you don't see beyond the TV cameras. The jokes, the friendly banter with stewards etc.
That's only my experience. What's yours?
Twitter: @ShaneSaunders88
---
I'm only a relatively recent convert to the League Of Ireland and in particular, a little club named Bohemians. In my two years of supporting this team, I've grown ever so slightly obsessed with them.
My first game at Dalymount was a Europa League tie against Slovenian outfit Olimpija Ljubljana. A friend of mine mentioned the game was on to and given the Premier League season had finished, I figured I'd go along given I'd nothing else to do.
All in all, it was a strange experience for me. It felt very alien to me sitting in the stands watching players whose names I didn't even know with fans cheering and singing about a club I had never watched before.
I'm not sure what enticed me to go back and try again but I plucked up the courage and went by myself to a league game that following Friday. Derry City were in town and Bohs lost 0-1 in the closing minutes of the game. After the game, a section of disgruntled fans were moaning and I left with the result going in one ear and right out the other.
I had bought a match programme that night and was reading about upcoming home fixtures. I sporadically returned to Dalymount for the duration of that season and looked ahead to the following season and was looking forward to starting anew from the very beginning.
The following season, I went to the first home game of the season against Shelbourne. A 2-0 loss was a tad disappointing but I continued to go back a bit more frequently. It wasn't until a certain date in July 2012 did I start to feel something for the club. My first derby against Shamrock Rovers was greeted with my first Bohemians jersey that day. I'd never seen or heard an atmosphere quite like it in Dalymount that day. A four nil thrashing of fierce rivals is something special and I found myself jumping and screaming like a lunatic for every goal. The full time whistle saw me chanting songs I'd only picked up that day and loved every minute of it. It was this moment when I felt like I belonged to something.
Fast forward to the 2013 season. I introduced my wallet to a Bohemians season ticket and the first time I've started going to away games.
I still follow Newcastle United and have done for years but live football is something I just can't get enough of.
It's not just the games that I enjoy.
It's the craic in the bar beforehand and listening to stories about the history of Dalymount and the players that have come and gone that have left their mark.
It's the journey to and from away fixtures with warm beer, off key singing, spontaneous chants and cheering on your team regardless of the scoreline.
It's the ecstatic last minute winners/equalisers and the crushing defeats.
It's the things you don't see beyond the TV cameras. The jokes, the friendly banter with stewards etc.
That's only my experience. What's yours?
Saturday 15 June 2013
Sligo Rovers vs UCD
Sligo Rovers hosted UCD in the Showgrounds in what was a thrilling 5-2 win for the home side. Sligo had their team unchanged from the Bohemians match the previous week and the pressure was high with the Bit O' Red not scoring in four consecutive games.
The game kicked off but after a bit of passing play from Sligo, a bad touch from Jeff Henderson put him under pressure and his weak pass back to Gary Rogers put David McMillan through who finished calmly on the stroke of 2 minutes. This early goal made the home crowd ever more restless. But Rovers pushed on and started to create chances as Ndo passed the ball to youngster Liam Martin whose shot went wide of the target. Another good chance happened on 14 when Greene's powerful shot was pushed away by the goalkeeper. Rovers were gifted a chance when David Cawleys low shot was spilled by O'Donnell but Keanes rebound was blazed over the bar.
But the home side got their reward in the 27th minute when Ndo passed the free-kick short to Greene who in turn lays it on to Cawley who powered his shot into the net. UCD had to make an early substitution when Matthews was taken off for Traynor with an injury.
Halftime Stats: 1-1
Shots (On Target): Sligo: 13(4) UCD: 3(1)
Corners: Sligo: 1 UCD: 0
Fouls: Sligo: 5 UCD: 7
Offsides: Sligo: 1 UCD: 0
The 2nd half couldn't have started better for Sligo when Greene controlled the ball on the edge of the box, turned the defender and hammered the ball into the bottom right hand corner on 48. From this goal Sligo seemed to up the tempo and seemed to create chances at will. One of these chances ended in an O.G by Traynor when Cawleys hard low cross hit off Tranyors feet and deflected into the net. 2 minutes later they scored again when Conneely won the ball in a good position, played it in to Djilali who placed it nicely into the corner. 4-1 Rovers. UCD looked like they were going for a comeback when some sloppy play in the Sligo fell to Clarke who put his shot past Rogers although there was appeals for handball by the Sligo defence.
But this comeback mood only lasted ten minutes when Ndo tapped in from two yards after a cross from the right by Keane was flicked on by Cawley to Ndo. The game cooled down after that and no major chances were created and after the three minutes of stoppage time the final whistle blew. Sligo move into third
with a game in hand.
Ian Baraclogh.
Sligo Team: Rogers, Keane, Daveron, Peers, Henderson, Ndo, Cawley, Conneely, Djilali, Greene, Martin
Subs: Kelly, Owens, Dykes, Gaynor, Connolly, Millien, North.
Martin Russel
UCD Team: O'Donnell, Matthews, Russel, Douglas, O'Connor, Walsh, Creevy, Burke, Benson, McMillian, O'Halloran
Subs: Barron, Traynor, Coyne, McCabe, Morrison, Clarke, Corcoran
Full-Time Stats: 5-2
Shots (On Target): Sligo: 22(8) UCD: 8(2)
Corners: Sligo: 2 UCD: 1
Fouls: Sligo: 10 UCD: 11
Offsides: Sligo: 4 UCD 0
The game kicked off but after a bit of passing play from Sligo, a bad touch from Jeff Henderson put him under pressure and his weak pass back to Gary Rogers put David McMillan through who finished calmly on the stroke of 2 minutes. This early goal made the home crowd ever more restless. But Rovers pushed on and started to create chances as Ndo passed the ball to youngster Liam Martin whose shot went wide of the target. Another good chance happened on 14 when Greene's powerful shot was pushed away by the goalkeeper. Rovers were gifted a chance when David Cawleys low shot was spilled by O'Donnell but Keanes rebound was blazed over the bar.
But the home side got their reward in the 27th minute when Ndo passed the free-kick short to Greene who in turn lays it on to Cawley who powered his shot into the net. UCD had to make an early substitution when Matthews was taken off for Traynor with an injury.
Halftime Stats: 1-1
Shots (On Target): Sligo: 13(4) UCD: 3(1)
Corners: Sligo: 1 UCD: 0
Fouls: Sligo: 5 UCD: 7
Offsides: Sligo: 1 UCD: 0
The 2nd half couldn't have started better for Sligo when Greene controlled the ball on the edge of the box, turned the defender and hammered the ball into the bottom right hand corner on 48. From this goal Sligo seemed to up the tempo and seemed to create chances at will. One of these chances ended in an O.G by Traynor when Cawleys hard low cross hit off Tranyors feet and deflected into the net. 2 minutes later they scored again when Conneely won the ball in a good position, played it in to Djilali who placed it nicely into the corner. 4-1 Rovers. UCD looked like they were going for a comeback when some sloppy play in the Sligo fell to Clarke who put his shot past Rogers although there was appeals for handball by the Sligo defence.
But this comeback mood only lasted ten minutes when Ndo tapped in from two yards after a cross from the right by Keane was flicked on by Cawley to Ndo. The game cooled down after that and no major chances were created and after the three minutes of stoppage time the final whistle blew. Sligo move into third
with a game in hand.
Ian Baraclogh.
Sligo Team: Rogers, Keane, Daveron, Peers, Henderson, Ndo, Cawley, Conneely, Djilali, Greene, Martin
Subs: Kelly, Owens, Dykes, Gaynor, Connolly, Millien, North.
Martin Russel
UCD Team: O'Donnell, Matthews, Russel, Douglas, O'Connor, Walsh, Creevy, Burke, Benson, McMillian, O'Halloran
Subs: Barron, Traynor, Coyne, McCabe, Morrison, Clarke, Corcoran
Full-Time Stats: 5-2
Shots (On Target): Sligo: 22(8) UCD: 8(2)
Corners: Sligo: 2 UCD: 1
Fouls: Sligo: 10 UCD: 11
Offsides: Sligo: 4 UCD 0
Friday 14 June 2013
Bray Wanderers vs Derry City Review. Friday, June 14th 2013.
On a night of torrential rain and strong winds this clash at the seaside never looked like being an appealing game of football to watch. On a saturated pitch which allowed for little football to be played, form side Bray Wanderers hosted title hopefuls Derry City in the Carlisle Grounds.
Derry started the game and immediately set out to all watching that they would not be attempting to play the ball around too much as they shot straight from kick off. Derry dominated the early parts of the game squeezing a penalty appeal and the opening goal of the game into the first fifteen minutes of action. The opening goal came as Rory Patterson flicked the ball across the box for Patrick McEleney to divert the ball home past Darren Quigley in the Bray goal. The game was providing no real entertainment and the highlight thus far proved to be three brave Derry fans leaving the enclosed stand to support their team from beneath the lashings of rain and gusts of wind on the opposite side of the pitch. This was a move which brought a smile to the faces of most and was met by applause from the vast majority of the Carlisle.
Bray then began to get the ball under control for the first real time in the game with twenty-five minutes on the clock. Kieran 'Marty' Waters attempted to feed Jason Byrne through but the conditions meant the ball skidded through kindly to the hands of Ger Doherty in the Candystripes' goal. Moments later a long ball was nicely touched on by Bray youngster Ismahil Akinade and Gary Dempsey drove forward past two City players before releasing the ball to Jason Byrne whose effort was tame and straight at Doherty.
As Bray found their stride Derry broke down and looked certain to make it 2-0 but for a superb last ditch tackle from Conor Earley to set up a Bray attack. Waters ran at the Derry defence before being brought down on the edge of the box. Dave Webster powerfully drove the ball at goal and were it not for a wonderful save from Doherty the score would have been level once more. The save was so good it even prompted Jason Byrne to go and shake the hand of the Derry keeper. The scores were level from the resulting corner, however. The man affectionately known as 'Izzy' by Seagulls' supporters found himself free in the box and looped his header inside the far post to draw Bray level on thirty-five minutes before making full use of the conditions in his celebration.
Bray went on to dominate the next ten minutes of play. Time and time again the ball was lofted into the Derry box where each time it was rather easily headed away.
Just as the fourth official indicated how long would be added on to the end of the half Quigley brilliantly parried away a speculative drive from Kevin Deery. It wasn't long before Quigley was beaten for the second time. On forty-seven minutes Rory Patterson glanced a Barry McNamee cross past the Bray shot stopper to restore his sides lead right on half time.
As the second half began, Bray had the wind behind them and it didn't take long for them to cause Derry a problem or two. Gary Dempsey found himself bearing down on Doherty's goal only to go down under a challenge but Bray's rather tame penalty shouts were turned down by referee Paul Tuite. Tuite was once again the centre of attention moments later when Marty Waters crossed was caught by the wind and dipped down, bouncing out off the crossbar before Ger Doherty picked up what appeared to be a back-pass from one of his defenders but the referee stood firm and turned down the appeals.
Bray soon found themselves with a mountain to climb as Paddy Kavanagh lost his man from a throw in and was allowed the space to easily roll the ball into the six-yard-box where Rory Patterson tapped home to double his tally and City's lead.
Bray did not give up, however and a long ball to Byrne cause confusion in the Derry defence and led to a corner which came to nothing. The warning signs were there. Shortly after Waters found himself to the left of the box, cutting in onto his weaker right foot his shot was blocked wide for another Seagulls corner. This time the end result was a goal. Dean Zambra's initial cross was blocked, but rebounded to him providing him with a second opportunity which he took full advantage of. His cross was met by the head of Patterson who put the ball into his own goal to give Bray a lifeline.
Shane O'Connor found himself lucky to remain on the pitch for the second time in the game following an off the ball incident with Patterson in which he appeared to kick out at the Candystripes' forward. Luckily this incident was not spotted by the referee. Earlier on in the game O'Connor appeared to have swung an arm at a Derry player. The second of these incidents resulted in O'Connor escaping any cards while Patterson picked up a booking for descent.
From here on in Bray will rightly feel they should have earned at least a point from the game. Firstly, Gary Dempsey broke the offside trap before trying to lift the ball over the onrushing Doherty only for his effort to go wide. Then came the best chance, and most surprising miss of the game. A long hopeful ball into the Derry box found Jason Byrne six yards out, completely unmarked. The veteran striker somehow managed the fluff his connection and the ball went wide. Byrne's reaction said it all as he stood with his head in his hands. Jason Byrne was once again involved as he beautifully beat two Derry players at once on the right wing before firing an extremely optimistic shot from range which never came close to troubling Doherty.
After this the game kind of just fizzled out with the only real chance falling to the head of Barry McNamee who should have killed the game but headed wide from right in front of Quigley's goal.
Derry held on to claim all three points and the celebrations of City boss Declan Devine showed that they had escaped with a lucky three points on the night. An important win for Derry, but an unfortunate and undeserved defeat for Bray.
Derry started the game and immediately set out to all watching that they would not be attempting to play the ball around too much as they shot straight from kick off. Derry dominated the early parts of the game squeezing a penalty appeal and the opening goal of the game into the first fifteen minutes of action. The opening goal came as Rory Patterson flicked the ball across the box for Patrick McEleney to divert the ball home past Darren Quigley in the Bray goal. The game was providing no real entertainment and the highlight thus far proved to be three brave Derry fans leaving the enclosed stand to support their team from beneath the lashings of rain and gusts of wind on the opposite side of the pitch. This was a move which brought a smile to the faces of most and was met by applause from the vast majority of the Carlisle.
Bray then began to get the ball under control for the first real time in the game with twenty-five minutes on the clock. Kieran 'Marty' Waters attempted to feed Jason Byrne through but the conditions meant the ball skidded through kindly to the hands of Ger Doherty in the Candystripes' goal. Moments later a long ball was nicely touched on by Bray youngster Ismahil Akinade and Gary Dempsey drove forward past two City players before releasing the ball to Jason Byrne whose effort was tame and straight at Doherty.
As Bray found their stride Derry broke down and looked certain to make it 2-0 but for a superb last ditch tackle from Conor Earley to set up a Bray attack. Waters ran at the Derry defence before being brought down on the edge of the box. Dave Webster powerfully drove the ball at goal and were it not for a wonderful save from Doherty the score would have been level once more. The save was so good it even prompted Jason Byrne to go and shake the hand of the Derry keeper. The scores were level from the resulting corner, however. The man affectionately known as 'Izzy' by Seagulls' supporters found himself free in the box and looped his header inside the far post to draw Bray level on thirty-five minutes before making full use of the conditions in his celebration.
Bray went on to dominate the next ten minutes of play. Time and time again the ball was lofted into the Derry box where each time it was rather easily headed away.
Just as the fourth official indicated how long would be added on to the end of the half Quigley brilliantly parried away a speculative drive from Kevin Deery. It wasn't long before Quigley was beaten for the second time. On forty-seven minutes Rory Patterson glanced a Barry McNamee cross past the Bray shot stopper to restore his sides lead right on half time.
As the second half began, Bray had the wind behind them and it didn't take long for them to cause Derry a problem or two. Gary Dempsey found himself bearing down on Doherty's goal only to go down under a challenge but Bray's rather tame penalty shouts were turned down by referee Paul Tuite. Tuite was once again the centre of attention moments later when Marty Waters crossed was caught by the wind and dipped down, bouncing out off the crossbar before Ger Doherty picked up what appeared to be a back-pass from one of his defenders but the referee stood firm and turned down the appeals.
Bray soon found themselves with a mountain to climb as Paddy Kavanagh lost his man from a throw in and was allowed the space to easily roll the ball into the six-yard-box where Rory Patterson tapped home to double his tally and City's lead.
Bray did not give up, however and a long ball to Byrne cause confusion in the Derry defence and led to a corner which came to nothing. The warning signs were there. Shortly after Waters found himself to the left of the box, cutting in onto his weaker right foot his shot was blocked wide for another Seagulls corner. This time the end result was a goal. Dean Zambra's initial cross was blocked, but rebounded to him providing him with a second opportunity which he took full advantage of. His cross was met by the head of Patterson who put the ball into his own goal to give Bray a lifeline.
Shane O'Connor found himself lucky to remain on the pitch for the second time in the game following an off the ball incident with Patterson in which he appeared to kick out at the Candystripes' forward. Luckily this incident was not spotted by the referee. Earlier on in the game O'Connor appeared to have swung an arm at a Derry player. The second of these incidents resulted in O'Connor escaping any cards while Patterson picked up a booking for descent.
From here on in Bray will rightly feel they should have earned at least a point from the game. Firstly, Gary Dempsey broke the offside trap before trying to lift the ball over the onrushing Doherty only for his effort to go wide. Then came the best chance, and most surprising miss of the game. A long hopeful ball into the Derry box found Jason Byrne six yards out, completely unmarked. The veteran striker somehow managed the fluff his connection and the ball went wide. Byrne's reaction said it all as he stood with his head in his hands. Jason Byrne was once again involved as he beautifully beat two Derry players at once on the right wing before firing an extremely optimistic shot from range which never came close to troubling Doherty.
After this the game kind of just fizzled out with the only real chance falling to the head of Barry McNamee who should have killed the game but headed wide from right in front of Quigley's goal.
Derry held on to claim all three points and the celebrations of City boss Declan Devine showed that they had escaped with a lucky three points on the night. An important win for Derry, but an unfortunate and undeserved defeat for Bray.
Dundalk vs St Pats
Having taken over the mantle of top dog in Co Louth following their 1-0 win over Drogheda United, fourth place Dundalk will now try to make up ground on leaders St Patrick’s Athletic whom they trail by nine points despite being one of only two teams to defeat the Saints in the league this season.
Dundalk have not beaten St Pat’s in almost 15 years at Oriel Park and the Saints have won on each of their last seven visits.
A win at Oriel Park on Friday night will move Stephen Kenny’s side 6 off Pats, with a game in hand.Lilywhites' dream of a title challenge would not be out of the question if they can pick up the 3 points tonight
Speaking to Extratime.ie Dundalk boss Stephen Kenny is very happy with the way his team are performing at the moment and sees no reason why they cannot halt Pat’s unbeaten run.
“The players have responded brilliantly in the past few weeks with away wins to Sligo Rovers, Drogheda on Monday and the Cup win against Phoenix was excellent too. We have been on a good run and have played some good football,” said the man in charge in the north east.~
The Saints go marching on. 5 games since they last let in a goal and conceding only twice in their last 8 games, the Inchicore side are on a high.
Manager Liam Buckley expects a difficult game against but is also expecting his side, to come out on top.
Speaking to the clubs official site, Buckley said: “Dundalk are a bit like us last year in that Stephen [Kenny] has put a good squad together, they’re playing well together and enjoying some good results at the moment.
Dundalk will be without the suspended Stephen O’Donnell and John Mountney. Eoghan Osborne (infection) is struggling but Darren Meenan and John Sullivan are available after serving bans. Pat’s have John Russell back from an ankle injury.
Preview Bray Wanderers VS Derry City
BRAY WANDERERS VS DERRY CITY
KO 7.45 @ CARLISLE GROUNDS, BRAY, CO.WICKLOW
Derry currently sit on 2nd place behind St.Pats and this will be the last game before the mid-season break.
The last time these two clubs met was at the Brandywell when Derry ran out 2-0 winners on Easter Monday thanks to two goals by Michael Rafter.
Bray will be a bit more confident than last time as they won 5-4 away to UCD thanks to 4 goals from Jason Byrne who has been in top form recently.
Derry last week beat rock bottom club Shelbourne 1-0 with a goal from youngster Mickey Duffy so Derry will also be confident of a win tonight but it wont be as easy as it is at the Brandywell , it never is at the Carlisle Grounds.
I personally can see Derry grabbing a 2-0 but maybe I`m being over confident we will just have to wait and see.
There are a few former Derry and Bray players playing against their former clubs like
Darren Quigley-Bray
Sean Houstan- Derry
Paddy Kavanagh-Derry
Injuries & Suspensions
Bray:
Injured: Shane O`Neill, Eoin Hyland
Doubtful: Danny O`Connor Ishmael Akinade
Suspended: NONE
Derry:
Injured; Thomas Crawley, Dermot McCaffrey
Doubtful: Barry Molloy
Suspended: NONE
By. Adam Quigley- Nixon
KO 7.45 @ CARLISLE GROUNDS, BRAY, CO.WICKLOW
Derry currently sit on 2nd place behind St.Pats and this will be the last game before the mid-season break.
The last time these two clubs met was at the Brandywell when Derry ran out 2-0 winners on Easter Monday thanks to two goals by Michael Rafter.
Bray will be a bit more confident than last time as they won 5-4 away to UCD thanks to 4 goals from Jason Byrne who has been in top form recently.
Derry last week beat rock bottom club Shelbourne 1-0 with a goal from youngster Mickey Duffy so Derry will also be confident of a win tonight but it wont be as easy as it is at the Brandywell , it never is at the Carlisle Grounds.
I personally can see Derry grabbing a 2-0 but maybe I`m being over confident we will just have to wait and see.
There are a few former Derry and Bray players playing against their former clubs like
Darren Quigley-Bray
Sean Houstan- Derry
Paddy Kavanagh-Derry
Injuries & Suspensions
Bray:
Injured: Shane O`Neill, Eoin Hyland
Doubtful: Danny O`Connor Ishmael Akinade
Suspended: NONE
Derry:
Injured; Thomas Crawley, Dermot McCaffrey
Doubtful: Barry Molloy
Suspended: NONE
By. Adam Quigley- Nixon
Cork look to escape relegation dogfight, as the Drogs look to open gap over their hosts.
Cork City enter their final game before the mid season break, nervously looking over their shoulders, as Drogheda United travel to Turner's Cross, looking to make it 5 straight home defeats for the Rebel Army.
It's 70 days since the Leesiders last won at home, and should they be defeated tonight, it will be a new club record. They are looking to recover from a 2-1 defeat to Shamrock Rovers last Sunday, but they will be without the services of Denis Behan (knee), Kevin Murray (groin), Colin Healy (Knee) and Brian Lenihan (Leaving Cert). Goalkeeper Mark McNulty is back in contention after serving his 1 game ban against the Hoops.
Cork boss Tommy Dunne told CorkCityFC.ie that his side need to improve: “This is a massive game for us. We need to be at the game, and we need everybody to stand up and be counted tomorrow night. We are in a situation now where we need to start rolling up our sleeves and start fighting. Over the next number of weeks, we need to get ourselves up the table''.
A win for the hosts will see them leapfrog their opponents in the table,
Drogheda are also coming into this game on the back of a defeat. The Drogs went down 1-0 to fierce rivals Dundalk in front of the Setanta cameras on Monday night, and sit only 2 points ahead of Cork before their visit to the Cross. Their away form has been poor this season so far, winning only twice out of 8 games.
Eric Foley is out through injury, Captain Derek Prendergast should return. Gabriel Sava and David Cassidy return from suspension while Gavin Brennan is likely to make a return to the team in place of Jason Marks . Stephen Quigley is a doubt after being out of the squad in Mondays game with a hamstring injury
Speaking to extratime.ie, Mick Cooke gave his views on the recent form of the Boynesiders :
“I think we have been really unlucky in the last few weeks, our performances just aren't getting the rewards they deserved. We have lost the last four games by the odd goal, it's a very tight margin. But I'm happy with our performances. We were denied by the brilliance of Peter Cherrie on Monday night, it's disappointing to lose the local derby, but I wasn't disappointed with the way we played.''
STATS:
Cork will be debuting their new white away kit on Friday.
Earlier on in the season, the sides finished level in Hunky Dory Park. Shane Duggan scored a wonderstrike to give the Rebel Army the lead, but as has so often been the case, they conceded late. Declan O'Brien converted a penalty with just 3 minutes left, and rescued a point for Drogheda.
Cork's home form is remarkably similar to Drogs away form. They've only won three times at home this season out of 8 games!.
Cork and Drogheda have met 20 times in the last 10 years, with the home team winning 13, with an average of 2 goals per game. Drogheda won the 2005 FAI Cup, and the 2006 Setanta Cup by beating the Rebel Army
-----------------
David Kent
It's 70 days since the Leesiders last won at home, and should they be defeated tonight, it will be a new club record. They are looking to recover from a 2-1 defeat to Shamrock Rovers last Sunday, but they will be without the services of Denis Behan (knee), Kevin Murray (groin), Colin Healy (Knee) and Brian Lenihan (Leaving Cert). Goalkeeper Mark McNulty is back in contention after serving his 1 game ban against the Hoops.
Cork boss Tommy Dunne told CorkCityFC.ie that his side need to improve: “This is a massive game for us. We need to be at the game, and we need everybody to stand up and be counted tomorrow night. We are in a situation now where we need to start rolling up our sleeves and start fighting. Over the next number of weeks, we need to get ourselves up the table''.
A win for the hosts will see them leapfrog their opponents in the table,
Drogheda are also coming into this game on the back of a defeat. The Drogs went down 1-0 to fierce rivals Dundalk in front of the Setanta cameras on Monday night, and sit only 2 points ahead of Cork before their visit to the Cross. Their away form has been poor this season so far, winning only twice out of 8 games.
Eric Foley is out through injury, Captain Derek Prendergast should return. Gabriel Sava and David Cassidy return from suspension while Gavin Brennan is likely to make a return to the team in place of Jason Marks . Stephen Quigley is a doubt after being out of the squad in Mondays game with a hamstring injury
Speaking to extratime.ie, Mick Cooke gave his views on the recent form of the Boynesiders :
“I think we have been really unlucky in the last few weeks, our performances just aren't getting the rewards they deserved. We have lost the last four games by the odd goal, it's a very tight margin. But I'm happy with our performances. We were denied by the brilliance of Peter Cherrie on Monday night, it's disappointing to lose the local derby, but I wasn't disappointed with the way we played.''
STATS:
Cork will be debuting their new white away kit on Friday.
Earlier on in the season, the sides finished level in Hunky Dory Park. Shane Duggan scored a wonderstrike to give the Rebel Army the lead, but as has so often been the case, they conceded late. Declan O'Brien converted a penalty with just 3 minutes left, and rescued a point for Drogheda.
Cork's home form is remarkably similar to Drogs away form. They've only won three times at home this season out of 8 games!.
Cork and Drogheda have met 20 times in the last 10 years, with the home team winning 13, with an average of 2 goals per game. Drogheda won the 2005 FAI Cup, and the 2006 Setanta Cup by beating the Rebel Army
-----------------
David Kent
Bohemians V Shelbourne - Preview
Friday 14th June 2013.
Dalymount Park.
Kick Off: 7:45pm
Referee: Tomás Connolly
Pride, passion and bragging rights. Local derby games against close rivals is always significant but the big Northside derby between Bohemians and Shelbourne this Friday night has an extra layer of importance sprinkled on top of it.
Both teams lie in the wrong half the table and with a good portion of the season complete, points are becoming increasingly important to all teams involved in the battle to preserve Premier Division status.
Visitors Shelbourne lie rooted to the table and have done for the majority of the season. Shels are currently 8 points behind UCD and Bohemians who both lie on 14 points. New manager John McDonnell is aware of the monumental task on hand and in recent weeks has steadied the ship and tightened up the defence somewhat. Narrow 1-0 losses to Derry and Shamrock Rovers in subsequent weeks, while disappointing, is also a sign that perhaps things are improving at the back for the Drumcondra natives.
Worryingly for Shelbourne, they've only scored 6 goals in 16 games in the league and is a big reason as to why they're in the position they're in.
Paul Crowley (hip injury), full back, Rob Cornwall (ankle injury) and former Bohemian Robert Bayly are all set to miss out on this crunch fixture.
While Shelbourne may have their difficulties, they can take some hope that Bohemians have been very inconsistent at home this season having only picked up 7 points at Dalymount Park this season.
The Phibsboro based club haven't yet beaten a team above them in the league outside of the bottom 4 and have leaked a lot of goals in home fixtures in league and cup competitions.
They say that all form goes out the window when it comes to derby games and this could well prove to be the case however Bohs should be full of confidence having come away with a massive point and a clean sheet in the 0-0 draw away to Sligo last Saturday. Manager Aaron Callaghan will hope to give the home fans something to cheer about in a game he has dubbed as a "cup final for both clubs".
Owen Heary (hip), Luke Byrne (dead leg) and Keith Buckley (hamstring) are all slight doubts but are expected to make the starting XI.
It's an intriguing game and one which could have massive bearing on the relegation scrap. In the last meeting between these two sides, Ryan McEvoy scored the only goal in a narrow victory at Tolka Park earlier in the season.
Blog prediction: 1-1
---
Shane Saunders
Twitter: @ShaneSaunders88
Dalymount Park.
Kick Off: 7:45pm
Referee: Tomás Connolly
Pride, passion and bragging rights. Local derby games against close rivals is always significant but the big Northside derby between Bohemians and Shelbourne this Friday night has an extra layer of importance sprinkled on top of it.
Both teams lie in the wrong half the table and with a good portion of the season complete, points are becoming increasingly important to all teams involved in the battle to preserve Premier Division status.
Visitors Shelbourne lie rooted to the table and have done for the majority of the season. Shels are currently 8 points behind UCD and Bohemians who both lie on 14 points. New manager John McDonnell is aware of the monumental task on hand and in recent weeks has steadied the ship and tightened up the defence somewhat. Narrow 1-0 losses to Derry and Shamrock Rovers in subsequent weeks, while disappointing, is also a sign that perhaps things are improving at the back for the Drumcondra natives.
Worryingly for Shelbourne, they've only scored 6 goals in 16 games in the league and is a big reason as to why they're in the position they're in.
Paul Crowley (hip injury), full back, Rob Cornwall (ankle injury) and former Bohemian Robert Bayly are all set to miss out on this crunch fixture.
While Shelbourne may have their difficulties, they can take some hope that Bohemians have been very inconsistent at home this season having only picked up 7 points at Dalymount Park this season.
The Phibsboro based club haven't yet beaten a team above them in the league outside of the bottom 4 and have leaked a lot of goals in home fixtures in league and cup competitions.
They say that all form goes out the window when it comes to derby games and this could well prove to be the case however Bohs should be full of confidence having come away with a massive point and a clean sheet in the 0-0 draw away to Sligo last Saturday. Manager Aaron Callaghan will hope to give the home fans something to cheer about in a game he has dubbed as a "cup final for both clubs".
Owen Heary (hip), Luke Byrne (dead leg) and Keith Buckley (hamstring) are all slight doubts but are expected to make the starting XI.
It's an intriguing game and one which could have massive bearing on the relegation scrap. In the last meeting between these two sides, Ryan McEvoy scored the only goal in a narrow victory at Tolka Park earlier in the season.
Blog prediction: 1-1
---
Shane Saunders
Twitter: @ShaneSaunders88
Thursday 13 June 2013
Waterford United vs Cobh Ramblers preview.
Cobh Ramblers vs Waterford United
Dave Hill's claret and blue army come into this clash with 6th placed Waterford United on a loss, after losing to Mervue United away 1-0, Ryan Manning was the scorer.Before that the Rams beat St.Pats CYFC 4-3 in Frank Cooke park, with Pats nearly coming back with two ninetieth minute goals. Cobh find themselves 5 points off bottom and 7 off upcoming opponents Waterford United.
The Blues come into the game with 6 goals in there last two games, most recent being the 3-0 win against Avondale in the Munster Senior Cup final! Darragh Walshe (2) and Jack Doherty the scorers. Last Friday the blues beat SD Galway 3-2. Ben Ryans free kick deserves a mention! Scorers were Ben Ryan (2) Vinny Sullivan (1). Enda Curran (2). Blues fans also got the chance to see new signing Phillip ''Drukie'' Drohan play, who seemed to make a very good impression on the Blues fans.
Last time these teams met it was a nil all draw in the RSC, which seen Brian Fitzgerald sent off.The two also met in the EA Sports Cup which saw one game called off due to snow, but the second time around the Blues came out with a 2-1 victory. Darragh Walshe,Ben Ryan and Davin O'Neill the scorers.
Odds with Bet365 are : Cobh 12/5 and Waterford 21/20 and a draw 23/10.
A prediction would be to hard to call, would say it will be a goalfest though!
The game will be live from 19.40 on Radio DBSC. ( http://www.ustream.tv/channel/radio-dbsc )
@FrankieWUFC
Dave Hill's claret and blue army come into this clash with 6th placed Waterford United on a loss, after losing to Mervue United away 1-0, Ryan Manning was the scorer.Before that the Rams beat St.Pats CYFC 4-3 in Frank Cooke park, with Pats nearly coming back with two ninetieth minute goals. Cobh find themselves 5 points off bottom and 7 off upcoming opponents Waterford United.
The Blues come into the game with 6 goals in there last two games, most recent being the 3-0 win against Avondale in the Munster Senior Cup final! Darragh Walshe (2) and Jack Doherty the scorers. Last Friday the blues beat SD Galway 3-2. Ben Ryans free kick deserves a mention! Scorers were Ben Ryan (2) Vinny Sullivan (1). Enda Curran (2). Blues fans also got the chance to see new signing Phillip ''Drukie'' Drohan play, who seemed to make a very good impression on the Blues fans.
Last time these teams met it was a nil all draw in the RSC, which seen Brian Fitzgerald sent off.The two also met in the EA Sports Cup which saw one game called off due to snow, but the second time around the Blues came out with a 2-1 victory. Darragh Walshe,Ben Ryan and Davin O'Neill the scorers.
Odds with Bet365 are : Cobh 12/5 and Waterford 21/20 and a draw 23/10.
A prediction would be to hard to call, would say it will be a goalfest though!
The game will be live from 19.40 on Radio DBSC. ( http://www.ustream.tv/channel/radio-dbsc )
@FrankieWUFC
Tuesday 11 June 2013
Celtic coming to the Cross
Cork City will face a Celtic XI this July as part of the Cork Airport Friendly Series.
The Bhoys will play City on Sunday July 21st at 6pm. This is the 4th friendly confirmed by the Rebel Army as part of the Series, with Premier League sides West Ham and West Brom along with Burnley also confirmed.
Tickets are priced as follows: Adults €15, Juvenile (13-18) €10, Schoolchild (U13) & Senior Citizens €5. Discounted adult and juvenile tickets will be available to FORAS Trustees, CityCard Members and Season Ticket holders, at €13 and €8 respectively.
The Bhoys will play City on Sunday July 21st at 6pm. This is the 4th friendly confirmed by the Rebel Army as part of the Series, with Premier League sides West Ham and West Brom along with Burnley also confirmed.
Tickets are priced as follows: Adults €15, Juvenile (13-18) €10, Schoolchild (U13) & Senior Citizens €5. Discounted adult and juvenile tickets will be available to FORAS Trustees, CityCard Members and Season Ticket holders, at €13 and €8 respectively.
Sunday 9 June 2013
Louth Derby: Drogheda V Dundalk
In what will be the 151st Louth Derby, Drogheda United host neighbours Dundalk this Monday in Hunky Dory Park (Kick off 8Pm).
Drogheda go into this game in quite inconsistent form having lost 3-2 to Bray in the league and then beating Bohemians 3-0. Dundalk are in better form having beat Champions Sligo away 1-0 last in the league and then beating Non-League side Pheonix 4-0.
Dundalk are having the better of the two sides in the league at present with the Lilywhites sitting 4th with 27 points, 8 points ahead of their rivals Drogheda who are 6th with 19 points. This is the second derby of the season with the previous fixture back in March ending in a 2-2 thriller between the two sides.
Drogheda have won only 2 of their 7 home games so far this season, those a 3-2 win V UCD back in April and a 2-1 win over Bray Wanderers in March.
Dundalk's away form however has been extremely exceptional so far with 6 wins out of 7, including impressive wins away to Champions Sligo Rovers and current league leaders Saint Patricks Athletic.
Team News:
Drogheda are without Captain Derek Prendergast(Ankle injury) and Eric Foley (Muscle). They are also without the services of Gabriel Sava and David Cassidy due to suspension after their sending offs in their 3-2 defeat away to Bray Wanderers.
Dundalk have to do without the suspended trio of Stephen O'Donnell, John Sullivan & Darren Meenan and may also have to do without John Mountney (Doubt). After a Long spell on the sidelines with a knee problem Chris Shields makes his return to the Dundalk squad.
Views ahead of the game:
“We both had good wins in the cup last weekend, I think when you look at what Bohemians did to Sligo last night it makes our 3-0 win over them at Dalymount look more impressive. I think since our Setanta Cup defeat we have have put in good performances but we haven't got the results we deserved, but that win over Bohs saw us back to our best and doing what we did last year. It gave the squad a lot of confidence,”
“Dundalk obviously are doing what we did last season, they are the real surprise package of the league. They are playing some good football but we are well capable of that and it should be a good game, it will also determine who has the bragging rights for the next 10 weeks or so. “ said manager Mick Cooke.
Dundalk defender Mark Rossiter told Dundalkfc.com that the 10-day break enjoyed by the team will be a benefit to them ahead on Monday night’s match. “The break did us good but we’ve prepared well during that time off. We’ve had some good results recently in the FAI Cup and in Sligo but each one is another game to us.
"We were still very disappointed with that defeat to UCD but that happens. It’s football and no games are easy, especially the derby up next! They have been going well and anything can happen in a match like that. We have a big week ahead of us now going into the break and we’ll do all that we can to pick up maximum points starting in Drogheda.”
Referee: Alan Kelly
Betting Odds:
(Paddy Power) Drogheda United 11/8, Draw 11/5, Dundalk 15/8
In what should be a fierce game between the two sides, We reckon The Lilywhites should prove too much for thei Drogs, especially given their record on the way. There is plenty of value on offer at 15/8 on Dundalk. Verdict: Away win.
Drogheda go into this game in quite inconsistent form having lost 3-2 to Bray in the league and then beating Bohemians 3-0. Dundalk are in better form having beat Champions Sligo away 1-0 last in the league and then beating Non-League side Pheonix 4-0.
Dundalk are having the better of the two sides in the league at present with the Lilywhites sitting 4th with 27 points, 8 points ahead of their rivals Drogheda who are 6th with 19 points. This is the second derby of the season with the previous fixture back in March ending in a 2-2 thriller between the two sides.
Drogheda have won only 2 of their 7 home games so far this season, those a 3-2 win V UCD back in April and a 2-1 win over Bray Wanderers in March.
Dundalk's away form however has been extremely exceptional so far with 6 wins out of 7, including impressive wins away to Champions Sligo Rovers and current league leaders Saint Patricks Athletic.
Team News:
Drogheda are without Captain Derek Prendergast(Ankle injury) and Eric Foley (Muscle). They are also without the services of Gabriel Sava and David Cassidy due to suspension after their sending offs in their 3-2 defeat away to Bray Wanderers.
Dundalk have to do without the suspended trio of Stephen O'Donnell, John Sullivan & Darren Meenan and may also have to do without John Mountney (Doubt). After a Long spell on the sidelines with a knee problem Chris Shields makes his return to the Dundalk squad.
Views ahead of the game:
“We both had good wins in the cup last weekend, I think when you look at what Bohemians did to Sligo last night it makes our 3-0 win over them at Dalymount look more impressive. I think since our Setanta Cup defeat we have have put in good performances but we haven't got the results we deserved, but that win over Bohs saw us back to our best and doing what we did last year. It gave the squad a lot of confidence,”
“Dundalk obviously are doing what we did last season, they are the real surprise package of the league. They are playing some good football but we are well capable of that and it should be a good game, it will also determine who has the bragging rights for the next 10 weeks or so. “ said manager Mick Cooke.
Dundalk defender Mark Rossiter told Dundalkfc.com that the 10-day break enjoyed by the team will be a benefit to them ahead on Monday night’s match. “The break did us good but we’ve prepared well during that time off. We’ve had some good results recently in the FAI Cup and in Sligo but each one is another game to us.
"We were still very disappointed with that defeat to UCD but that happens. It’s football and no games are easy, especially the derby up next! They have been going well and anything can happen in a match like that. We have a big week ahead of us now going into the break and we’ll do all that we can to pick up maximum points starting in Drogheda.”
Referee: Alan Kelly
Betting Odds:
(Paddy Power) Drogheda United 11/8, Draw 11/5, Dundalk 15/8
In what should be a fierce game between the two sides, We reckon The Lilywhites should prove too much for thei Drogs, especially given their record on the way. There is plenty of value on offer at 15/8 on Dundalk. Verdict: Away win.
Shelbourne 0-1 Derry City
Shelboune are having a horrible season but with a new manager by the name of Johnny Mc Donnell the Shels fans can hope that things can only improve, the last time these sides met was at the Brandywell when Derry ran out 4-0 winners.
Shels started well and nearly took the lead but missed a glorious chance after 12 minutes when Mark Leech's cross into the box led to Sean Brennan's shot but it went horribly wide and should really have been 1-0. Shels had another chance to take the lead after 18 minutes when Dean Kelly took a shot on goal but it was well saved by the Derry number 1 Gerard Doherty.
Derry had been poor during that course of the game but had a chance to take the lead when captain Kevin Derry's cross was met by the head of Mickey Duffy but his header went wide still 0-0.
Shortly after Robbie Bayly saw his shot go flying over the Derry post from 25 yards and then Derry quickly got it together when Duffy`s shot hit the post but former Shels player Paddy Kavanagh fired a shot low and wide it still 0-0.
HALF TIME SHELS 0-0 DERRY CITY
Shels started the 2nd half with 2 half chances from Robbie Bayly and Mark Leech but neither of them troubled Doherty. Then Derry took the lead when the ball then came to Rory Patterson who passed it to Mickey Duffy he beat the Shels defence before firing a left footed effort which beat Niall Burdon and went into the back of the net to make it 1-0 to the candystripes.
Shels then brought on the famous Philly Hughes and Darren Tinney in search of an equalising goal but it didn't look like this was ever going to happen .
Shels best chance to make it 1-1 came after 85 minutes when Pat Flynn's intended cross to Phillip Hughes went to Kelly who's shot was just cleared off the line by Ryan Mc Bride.
On 87 minutes Marc Griffin could have made it 2-0 to the visitors after a mistake by Jack Memory but his shot went horribly wide and it remained 1-0 to Derry should have been 2-0 though.
Derry had yet another chance to make it 2-0 when Niall Burdon parried Mickey Duffy`s shot and Patterson could have tapped it in but Burdon got to the ball in time.
Full Time - it was a closer game than some would haved expeted Derry trying to keep the pressure on St.Pats and they have another trip next week this time its to the seaside when they take on Bray who ran out 5-4 winners over UCD in a thrlling game in which Jason Byrne scored 4 goals.
FULL TIME SHELS 0-1 DERRY CITY
Shelbourne:Burdon,Flynn,Gartland,Ryan,Memory,Hanlon(Tinney69),Hurley,Bayly(Cronin46),Brennan ,Leech,(Hughes72),Kelly.
Subs not used: Hanley,Shorthall,O`Connor,Sheerin
Derry City: Doherty,Madden,McBride,S.McEleney,Duffy,Kavanangh(Griffin 80),McNamee,Deery(Houstan 76),P.McEleney,Higgans,Patterson
Subs not used: Gallagher, Greacen,Rafter,Curran,Foy
Attendence: 636
Report by, Adam Quigley-Nixon
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