Shelbourne v Shamrock Rovers

SHELBOURNE

It’s been five years since Shels hosted their old Ringsend rivals Shamrock Rovers at Tolka Park in the league. Shels’ home form has been rather indifferent this season; playing six, and only winning two of those. If the Reds are to think about seriously challenging for a European spot this term, a massive change in home form will be required. Of course, they would tell you themselves, there couldn’t be a better team to start against.

Shels went into the break off the back of an impressive 1-0 away win at Derry City, thanks to a 71^st minute Philly Hughes strike. Despite only being nine points away from the foot of the table, Shels lie only two points behind the Hoops, who currently occupy a Europa League spot.

Shels last home game in the league was also against Dublin opposition when they entertained fierce rivals Bohemians. The Gypsies left Drumcondra with all three points, and the Reds will be looking to avenge that loss by claiming victory over the Hoops on Thursday evening.

Glen Cronin will miss this game because of suspension. Philly Gorman will face a late fitness test, while Lorcan Fitzgerald and Stephen Hurley have recovered sufficiently to put themselves in the reckoning for a place in the squad.

Speaking ahead of the crucial clash with Rovers, Alan Matthews said: “Shamrock Rovers are the reigning Champions and I believe they are the team most likely to win the League again this season. They have the strongest squad in the League with quality and competition for every position on the pitch. We go into the game with confidence and a positive attitude. We know a good performance will be required to achieve the three points on offer, but I firmly believe that we have the players to take on any side this season.”

SHAMROCK ROVERS

Most people expected Rovers to be top of the pile when the break for the European Championships arrived. The Hoops had apparently gone from strength to strength, and despite losing manager Michael O’Neill at the beginning of the year, Stephen Kenny has done well to bring in some top class signings. Even still, Rovers can’t seem to find that consistency they have been so used to in the last few years. The players and manager alike will know they have to step up their game in the second half of this season if they want that coveted third league title in a row.

Rovers have only won once in their last six games; form that has allowed Sligo Rovers to slowly edge their way in front of the chasing pack. A six nil win to Dundalk triggered a massive dip in form for the champions as they dropped points to Bray, Derry, Sligo, UCD and most recently, Cork City.

Away games have proven quite the task for Stephen Kenny’s men this season as they have only managed one win in five thus far.

Killian Brennan and Stephen Rice will both miss the tie through suspension while Sean Gannon and Ciaran Kilduff won’t be match fit by Thursday evening. Apart from that, Rovers will have a full squad to choose from.

Stephen Kenny knows how tough of a task this will be for Rovers, and he is taking nothing for granted. “The squad has worked very hard during the break. Now they need to apply themselves in Thursday night's game and show just how hard they've worked. We are expecting a tough game against Shelbourne and the team will need to perform well if they are to get a result. But they know that and are keen do well in the game and get the win."

Referee:Tom Connolly

MATCH STATS:

The last time the sides met in a league meeting, Shels were the victors thanks to goals from Jason Byrne and Joseph Ndo.

Shelbourne have the worst goalscoring record in the top half of the league, while Rovers have the best.

When these sides met earlier in the season, Rovers thumped the Reds by four goals to nil.

BETTING:

Shelbourne 3/1; Draw 9/4; Shamrock Rovers 10/11.

PREDICTION:

Shelbourne 2-2 Shamrock Rovers.

Shelbourne Injury News: Philly Gorman.

Shelbourne Suspension News: Glen Cronin.

Shamrock Rovers Injury News: Sean Gannon, Ciaran Kilduff.

Shamrock Rovers Suspension News: Killian Brennan, Stephen Rice.