League Preview: Dundalk -v- Sligo Rovers

Garry Buckley was sent off in last season's 1-0 away win for the Bit O' Red in Oriel Park last May

Garry Buckley was sent off in last season's 1-0 away win for the Bit O' Red in Oriel Park last May Credit: Ben Whitley (ETPhotos)

DUNDALK 

The Lilywhites face into a busy Easter period as they kick off the start of the second round of games in the league. They welcome Sligo Rovers this evening (kick off 7.45pm) before tackling Shamrock Rovers and Shelbourne on Monday and next Friday respectively. 

Dundalk are in fifth place, a point behind the Bit O’ Red in the league. A good result tonight, and in the games ahead, could see Dundalk stake a claim for a European place.

The last game between these two sides was a goalless stalemate in the Showgrounds. No surprise as Stephen O’Donnell’s side have drawn six times from nine games so far. A sign they are hard to beat.

Speaking to DundalkFC.com, the Dundalk boss felt that his side were ready for the challenge and that he hoped they could be a bit more effective and ruthless in possession as his team starts to gel.

“It’s a busy week with three difficult games but we can’t wait for them,” said O’Donnell the Dundalk Head Coach.

“They’re games that we’re really looking forward to. 

“The work rate and energy have been good from our boys so it’s all about trying to have more quality and being better when we’re in possession.”

There is a reunion for the 2002 Dundalk FAI Cup winning squad ahead of the match with a Q&A session in the Enda McGuill suite afterwards.

SLIGO ROVERS 



The Bit O’ Red enter the second series of games in fourth position, a point ahead of their hosts tonight. 

The Sligo Rovers manager, Liam Buckley, was keen to consolidate this position and to try and put some daylight between them and the Lilywhites but acknowledges that a trip to north Louth is never an easy assignment.

”As a club we are in a top four position and will endeavour to improve,” said Buckley. 

“With five points separating six teams from third to eight, competition for European places will be immense, a challenge we are all looking forward to.

“This will be a tough game for both teams. Oriel Park is always a tough venue but one we enjoy going to.”

Aidan Keena returns from injury with Buckley sweating on the fitness of Robbie McCourt and Jordan Hamilton.



Referee: Neil Doyle

MATCH STATS

Draw specialists Dundalk have slightly better form going into this game with four points from their last nine available. Sligo slumped to a single point from the nine on offer – earned from a draw with UCD.

Last season, Sligo Rovers won two of the four encounters against Dundalk. Drawing the other before Dundalk’s 4-1 win in Oriel towards the end of the season. 

Sligo have not won an away game in which they have conceded first so far this season. 

BETTING

Home 1/1; Draw 2/1; Away 5/2.

PREDICTION

Dundalk 1 – 1 Sligo Rovers

Dundalk 

Injured: John Mountney.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.

Sligo Rovers 

Injured: None.

Doubtful: Robbie McCourt, Jordan Hamilton.

Suspended: None.

    About Ciaran Fisher

    View Full Profile