Re-start club preview: Dundalk

Club: Dundalk FC

Manager: Vinny Perth

Highest league goalscorer: Patrick Hoban (5)

Current position: 2^nd

How we thought they would do for the 2020 season

Most of our ExtraTime.ie writers felt Dundalk would be surpassed this season and finish second.

How they did in the opening part of the season

Dundalk won four of their five games before the shutdown. The solitary loss came against Shamrock Rovers in a thrilling game that saw the Lilywhites narrowly edged out late on. Dundalk’s other results saw them pick up all three points against Derry City, Shelbourne, Cork City and Finn Harps.

Moment of the season so far

Although the result didn’t go their way, Jordan Flores’ sublime goal against Shamrock Rovers thrilled the bumper crowd in Tallaght and set the bar for goal of the season.

Stand out player so far this season

This is a difficult (and unfair) shout to make given the league was still in its infancy. Dundalk have plenty of talent and players who will have the potential to stand tall and grab match-winners and MOTM accolades – Sean Gannon has been immense for Dundalk in recent years and his early performances in this fledgling season make him a worthy nomination. 

Transfers in/out prior to the restart

There were lots of changes for the Lilywhites ahead of this season, so it isn’t surprising that they haven’t been ringing the changes in the interim. Dundalk restart with an enviable panel that is bolstered by the return of David McMillian from Scotland. Georgie Kelly is joining St Patrick’s Athletic on loan until the end of the season. Taner Dogan and Lido Lotifa will see the season out on loans to the midlands with Athlone and Longford respectfully.

What they need to do in the restart

Now that the season has been shortened, Dundalk have less time to close the gap on Rovers, and only one more head to head against the current league leaders. Over a longer season, the champions’ experience, squad and fitness may have given them ample opportunities to iron out game week two’s defeat.  They need to hit the ground running.

Where we see them finishing

Champions/Runners-up – it’s too tight to call for this writer.

Who will they face in the FAI Cup?

Dundalk have a home draw against Waterford United in the first round of the cup.

First post-lockdown league fixture

V St Patricks Athletic in Oriel Park on Friday the 31^st July. Kick-off is at 7.45pm. The game will be covered here (of course) and is on national television.