Bohemians v Dundalk

BOHEMIANS

Having beaten two non-league sides in the previous rounds, Bohemians face a Premier Division side this Friday in the guise of Dundalk. The Gypsies come into this match on a high after their one-nil victory over their arch-rivals Shamrock Rovers on Monday night. The victory was made all the sweeter as it was gained in Tallaght, marking a landmark first victory for Bohemians in this stadium.

Despite this historic victory Bohemians still languish in sixth position in the league, so, the FAI Cup remains a coveted piece of silverware at Dalymount Park.

The Gypsies are hopeful that Ryan McEvoy will be back in the squad after an ankle injury. However, skipper and talisman of the team, Owen Heary is doubtful for this game after picking up a back injury in the previous round against Avondale.

Manager Aaron Callaghan while pleased to have this cup tie at home is not taking the current bottom team in the Premier Division lightly.

“First and foremost, we’re at home. It’s going to be a difficult tie. Form goes out the window in the cup, anyone can tell you that. Darius (Kearns, Dundalk manager) has turned Dundalk around, making them hard to beat, but we are on our own patch and the onus is on us to go out and try and win the game.”

DUNDALK

Louth side Dundalk travel to Dalymount Park as underdogs due to their struggles in the league this year .As things stand they seem destined to have to compete in a play-off to preserve their top-flight status. Dundalk defeated non-league side Malahide United 4-0 in the previous round, but this has been followed up with three defeats in the league to Drogheda United, fellow relegation contenders UCD and Sligo Rovers.

Their win against Malahide in the last round of the cup was away from home but this trip to Dublin will be a much different proposition. When the sides last met at Dalymount Park in the league in ended in a 2-1 victory for Bohemians and the Lilywhites must improve on that performance to progress to the semi finals of the cup.

Dundlak have a proud history in the FAI Cup, having won it on 9 previous occasions. However, the last time the Louth team lifted the trophy was ten years ago. Given all the turmoil on and of the field this year it’s a competition that caretaker manager Darius Kearns will be keen to win. It would give a club a huge lift and would do the manager no harm when decisions are being made about a permanent occupant of the role for next season.

Referee: Derek Tomney.

MATCH STATS

Dundalk are looking to reach their first semi-final since winning the cup ten years ago, when they defeated Bohemians in the decider at Tolka Park thanks to a Gary Haylock double.

Bohemians knocked Dundalk out of the FAI Cup at Dalymount in 2009 and 2011.

BETTING

Bohemians 4/6, Draw 5/2, Dundalk, 19/5.

PREDICTION

A tight affair but Bohemians to emerge as 1-0 victors.

Bohemians Injury news: Owen Heary (back injury).
Bohemians Suspension news: None.

Dundalk Injury news: Unavailable.
Dundalk Suspension news: None.