League Preview: Drogheda United -v- Dundalk

DROGHEDA UNITED

Kevin Doherty’s Drogheda United will be looking to claim a scalp in the Louth Derby on Friday night when they host Dundalk (kick-off is at 7.45pm).

The Boynesiders head into the clash off the back of an encouraging start to the season as they sit seventh in the table.

And just this week they were handed a further boost with striker Freddie Draper being named the player of the month for May.

“I'm thrilled,” Draper said. “I thought I could have a bit of a chance. I was in a bit of form going into the month, I scored a couple of goals.

“I was happy to see my name and when I found out (he won the award) I was over the moon.”

However, Drogheda will be without Aaron McNally for Friday’s game as he nurses a hamstring injury picked up before the mid-season break.

DUNDALK

Following a pivotal win away to Cork City before the mid-season break, Stephen O’Donnell’s Dundalk face another difficult away trip against Drogheda United.

The Lilywhites have often edged Louth Derbies against Drogheda but they will be wary of the threat now posed by the Boynesiders.

And their task has been made more difficult following the departure of defender Wasiri Williams, while Robbie Benson and John Mountney are still out injured.

“It’s always a tough game at Weaver’s Park,” Dundalk head coach O’Donnell said. “When we beat them up there early in the season, they played very well and they were unlucky to lose.

“We’re aware of the challenge that’s ahead of us but we went into the break on the back of two of our best performances of the season and we’re looking forward to it.”

Referee: David Dunne.

PREDICTION

Drogheda United 2-1 Dundalk

Drogheda United

Injured: Aaron McNally.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.

Dundalk

Injured: John Mountney, Robbie Benson.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.