Dundalk set to host Louth rivals Drogheda United in Friday night friendly

Champions Dundalk will take on Louth neighbours Drogheda United in their third friendly ahead of the resumption of the League of Ireland on July 31st.

The Lilywhites will host their Malone Cup rivals in a friendly at Oriel Park on Friday night, July 17th, as they ramp up their preparations for the return of football at the end of the month.

It's the second time the sides have faced in friendly action this year, Dundalk having won out 2-0 in that Jim Malone Cup tie in pre-season thanks to second-half goals from Jordan Flores and Georgie Kelly.

While Dundalk have streamed their two previous friendlies, a 2-1 win over Derry City and a 4-1 triumph against Bohemians, this game will not be available to view live.

“The games we have played against Bohemians and Derry City may have been billed as friendlies but they were very competitive and so will the match with Drogheda United on Friday night,” said manager Vinny Perth.

“Our fitness levels are that good that we are able to throw in a lot of games and work on different systems. Drogheda will be there or thereabouts in the promotion race from division one so it’s another good test.”

Dundalk sit second in the Premier Division with 12 points from five games, three points behind league leaders Shamrock Rovers.