League Preview: Bohemians -v- Shamrock Rovers

BOHEMIANS

The Gypsies come into Monday’s Dublin Derby ten points behind Shamrock Rovers after a tricky start to 2021 (kick-off is at 7.45pm).

Keith Long’s side improved over the course of May after a difficult start, and last Friday’s 5-0 win over Drogheda United sees them unbeaten in their last four league games.

Georgie Kelly picked up his second hat-trick of 2021 in that demolition last Friday, as well as adding a fourth in front of 100 ecstatic supporters in Dalymount Park.

The Donegal man also rose to the top of the league's goal scoring table following his hat-trick. Liam Burt’s strike early in the second half all but sealed victory for Long’s men as they remained fifth. Ross Tierney came in for huge praise from his manager also, picking up four assists that evening.

That said, Bohs have lost their last four league games against Rovers. Last April, in their last clash, Dylan Watts and Ross Tierney opened the scoring in the first half in a fiercely contested game.

Bohs missed two golden opportunities to go ahead before James Finnerty was sent off, and a hugely controversial Graham Burke penalty 15 minutes before the end sealed victory for the Hoops.

Speaking to Bohemians media team ahead of the Dublin Derby, Keith Long spoke of his delight that supporters are now returning to stadia, and his team’s sparkling performance last Friday.

“It's such a pity we won't have more of a crowd in behind us for this considering the atmosphere the derby creates in Dalymount. But it was brilliant to have some fans back in the ground, even if it is only 100 or so.

"They got right behind the lads on Friday, even during the warm-ups. It makes a huge difference having that support during the game and after it as well.

"The boys put on a bit of a display for them as well with a 5-0 win, so we are pleased with that.

“Dalymount is a special place to play football but what makes it even more special is when you have fans there; when the Jodi Stand is rammed with supporters right behind the team.”

James Finnerty is available again after missing out on Friday due to tonsillitis and Promise Omochere returns to the squad following a quad injury.

SHAMROCK ROVERS

The Hoops come into Monday’s derby three points clear at the top of the Premier Division following their comprehensive win over Waterford, while Sligo Rovers lost 2-0 to St Patrick’s Athletic at Richmond Park.

Having started the season brilliantly, Stephen Bradley’s side have found the last few weeks tricky, drawing at home to Derry City before two losses in a row at the hands of Dundalk and Sligo Rovers.

Finn Harps held Rovers to a frustrating 1-1 draw on June 11th as Tallaght Stadium welcomed 1000 fans in for a pilot test event.

Last Friday, Eric Molloy opened the scoring for Waterford before Graham Burke equalized from the penalty spot ten minutes later. Strikes from Rory Gaffney, a second from Burke and Aaron Greene sealed three points for the Hoops at the Waterford RSC.

Ahead of Monday’s Dublin Derby, manager Stephen Bradley told Shamrock Rovers’ media team about how pleased he was with Friday’s performance, and looked ahead to travelling to Dalymount.

“We were delighted with the win and it's good to get the four goals. It had all the makings of being a tricky game in terms of them coming off the back of a win and their first night having a crowd back, those elements.

“The goal was a deflection, but we weren't quite right for the first 15 minutes. They had a few chances but after that we tidied up, especially in the second half and we were a lot more like ourselves.

"Bohs are a good side, we saw that in Tallaght. We know that is what we face tomorrow night. They have good threats in the attacking part of the pitch.

“They are a good side so we have to be ready for that tomorrow night, which I am sure we will. A Dublin Derby brings its own edge to it and I'm sure that will be there."

Referee: Neil Doyle

MATCH STATS

Bohemians are winless in their last four league meetings against Shamrock Rovers.

Georgie Kelly is Bohemians (and the leagues) top goal scorer so far this season with ten goals, compared to Graham Burke and Rory Gaffney who have both scored six.

Rovers have kept one clean sheet in their last seven, compared to Bohemians’ four.

BETTING

Bohemians 12/5; Draw 2/1; Shamrock Rovers 11/10

PREDICTION

Bohemians 1 - 1 Shamrock Rovers

Bohemians

Injured: None.

Doubtful: Stephen McGuinness, Stephen Mallon

Suspended: None.

Shamrock Rovers

Injured: Dylan Watts, Joey O’Brien

Doubtful: Lee Grace, Sean Kavanagh

Suspended: None.