Raphael Durand
Dailysports's expert
One of the fixtures of Matchday 25 in the Irish Premier Division will take place on Monday at Weavers Park, where local side Drogheda United host Shamrock Rovers. I’m offering a bet on the outcome of this encounter with strong chances for success.
Match preview
Kevin's team has shown consistency in their results, but with a clear tendency towards draws. In their last five matches, they've recorded four stalemates and just one win, highlighting a solid defense but also issues with converting chances. Their home record commands respect — just one defeat in nine games — but the lack of a winning streak could be a stumbling block against the league leaders.
In the previous round, Drogheda drew 0-0 with St. Patrick's, displaying a compact defense but a noticeable lack of attacking aggression. The team prefers a cautious approach, focusing on counter-attacks and minimizing risks. While this strategy helps them avoid losses, it may not be effective against the powerful Shamrock Rovers attack.
The table-toppers come into this clash in outstanding form — four wins and a draw in their last five matches. Stephen's side is playing a balanced brand of football: 12 goals scored and just 3 conceded over that stretch. Of particular note is Rovers' ability to win on the road — five victories and three draws in ten away games.
Their most recent triumph, a 2-1 win over Shelbourne, boosted the squad’s confidence and showcased their knack for grinding out results in tough matches. Shamrock employ high pressing and rapid transitions from defense to attack, which often unsettles slower opponents. This makes them favorites against a side that prioritizes defense.
Probable lineups
- Drogheda United: Dennison L., Lamb O., Keeley S., Quinn E., Ahui E., Kane S., Heaney L., Brennan R., Farrell S., Davis W., James-Taylor D.
- Shamrock Rovers: McGinty E., Honohan J., Grace L., Lopes R., O'Sullivan C., Healy M., Nugent D., Byrne J., Grant D., Noonan M., Burke G.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Shamrock Rovers are unbeaten against Drogheda United in their last five meetings
- Their most recent encounter ended in a convincing 3-0 win for Rovers
- Drogheda have drawn four of their last five games, but remain undefeated in that span
Prediction
Most likely, Shamrock Rovers will extend their dominant run. Despite the hosts' solid defense, Rovers’ attacking firepower and self-belief should see them claim another three points. Expect a pragmatic victory for the visitors, possibly with a clean sheet. Our tip: Shamrock Rovers to win at odds of 1.84.
