League Preview: Shelbourne -v- Shamrock Rovers B

SHELBOURNE

On Friday night, a Dublin derby takes place in the Airitricity League First Division as league leaders Shelbourne host Shamrock Rovers ‘B’ at Tolka Park. Kick off at 7.45pm.

Shels come into this game in unbelievable form. Last weekend Johnny McDonnell’s side travelled to Waterford United and came away from the RSC with all three points. That win was Shels’ third away win of the season and the North Dublin team are currently seven points clear of second-placed Wexford Youths, though Youths have a game in hand.

Earlier on in the season, Shels travelled to Rovers and came away with a share of the points, with a goal each from Daniel Purdy and Brian Gannon.

In team news, top goal scorer Dylan Connolly is missing through suspension while Jordan Keegan and John Sullivan's fitness will be checked loser to kick-off time before a decision is made.

Shels will be looking to further extend their lead at the top with a home win on Friday. Anything less will be viewed as points dropped.

SHAMROCK ROVERS ‘B’

Once upon a time Shamrock Rovers used to call Tolka Park home and Rovers’ ‘B’ manager Colin Hawkins was once a much lauded Shelbourne player during their heady days of the mid-noughties.

Rovers ‘B’ were held to a 1-1 draw with Galway FC at Tallaght Stadium last Sunday. Sean O’Connor’s goal on the half hour, and the sending off of Galway’s Stephen Walsh a few minutes later, gave the home side a comfortable lead at the break. The Tribesmen rallied and Jake Keegan snatched an equalizer on the hour mark to share the spoils.

Hawkins and his team will see this as three points dropped rather than a point gained, despite Galway being favourites for the tie on the day.

Friday night’s visitors will be gunning to get something from the game. However, in all probability, Rovers ‘B’ will find the tough going against a team that hasn’t lost at home this season.

Referee: Simon Rogers

MATCH STATS

Shelbourne FC remains undefeated at home this season.

This is Shamrock Rovers ‘B’ maiden competitive away Dublin derby.

Five goals have been scored in previous two encounters between the sides.

BETTING

Shelbourne 1/2; Draw 11/4; Shamrock Rovers B 5/1

PREDICTION

Shelbourne 2-0 Shamrock Rovers ‘B’

Shelbourne

Injured: None

Doubtful: John Sullivan & Jordan Keegan

Suspended: Dylan Connolly

Shamrock Rovers B

Injured: Unknown  

Doubtful: Unknown

Suspended: Unknown