Raphael Durand
Dailysports's expert
One of the fixtures of Matchday 25 in the Irish Premier Division will take place on Monday at Richmond Park, where local side St Patrick's Athletic will host Shelbourne. Here's a bet on the outcome of this clash with an attractive set of odds.
Match preview
St Patrick's Athletic are approaching this season with a focus on organization and consistency, something that's been especially evident in their home performances. At Richmond Park, the Saints remain unbeaten: 5 wins and 5 draws—a formidable argument ahead of their meeting with Shelbourne. Under coach Kenny's guidance, the team displays a tactically balanced approach, skillfully blending a compact defense with rapid transitions.
Recent results for the Irish side reveal some ups and downs, but the overall trajectory remains positive: two wins, two draws and just one defeat. Despite a goalless draw against Drogheda United in the last round, St Patrick's continue to be a tough opponent at home, particularly against teams that tend to sit deep. The desire to bounce back from their defeat in the previous head-to-head with Shelbourne provides extra motivation for the hosts.
Shelbourne's campaign has been a mixed bag, as they sit sixth in the table and have struggled to find the net in away matches. They've managed only two wins on the road, alongside five draws and two defeats—a sign of their inconsistency and cautious approach on their travels. Duff's men often find themselves prioritizing pragmatism over ambition.
Their recent loss to league leaders Shamrock (1-2) served as a reminder of how crucial it is for Shelbourne to perform against stronger opponents. Despite being well-organized defensively, the team clearly lacks cutting edge and efficiency in attack, especially away from home. Nine draws this season underline their safety-first mindset.
Probable line-ups
- St Patrick's Athletic: Anang – Breslin, Hoare, Redmond, Sjoberg – Leavy, Elbouzedi, Forrester, Bagley, Mulraney – Melia
- Shelbourne: Kearns K., Gannon S., Barrett P., Ledwidge C., Wilson T., Caffrey E., Coyle M. (c), McEnroe C., Chapman E., Martin J., Norris J.
Match facts and head-to-head
- The last head-to-head ended in a 2-1 victory for Shelbourne.
- In the last five meetings between these teams, Shelbourne have won three times, with St Patrick's claiming one win.
- St Patrick's are unbeaten at home this season: 5 wins and 5 draws.
Prediction
St Patrick's Athletic head into this match with a clear edge: their home stability, superior form, and tactical discipline make them the favorites. While Shelbourne can point to a positive head-to-head record, their current form and away inconsistency make them a less reliable pick. Everything in this clash points to a minimal yet deserved advantage for the hosts. Our bet for this match: "St Patrick's Athletic to win with a (0) handicap" at odds of 1.55.
