Drogheda United -v- Shamrock Rovers

• Sam Griffin
• Thu, Mar 31 2011


It’s a top versus bottom of the table clash in Hunky Dorys Park on Friday night as Drogheda United host league leaders Shamrock Rovers. (Kick off 7.45)

The home side, as the only team in the league to yet to register a win, have the unenviable task of facing the only side in the league yet to lose a game. Shamrock Rovers have lived up to all the hype and with the exception of last weekend’s draw away to Derry City, the Hoops have looked untouchable so far this season.

Likewise Drogheda too have done what was largely expected of them and have struggled in the early part of this season. However, the side may have reached a turning point this week with victory over Bray Wanderers in the EA Sports Cup.

Speaking during the week, Drogs boss Mick Cooke was particularly happy with how some of the newer faces in the squad performed: “Well after Monday night i will have a few selection problems. The lads played very well and it's going to leave me with a few things to think about. There are places up for grabs and the lads just have to prove to me that they want them”

One player Cooke was particularly impressed by was defender Robert Kovacsevics who could feature again on Friday night, according to Cooke. “Robert Kovacsevics had a great game Monday night and he has certainly played himself into contention”

Coupled with the win, the home side are also boosted by the return of Alan McNally. This means Mick Cooke should have a full squad to choose from.

Despite the draw with Derry last time out, Rovers manager Michael O’ Neill can be happy with how his side have started the season. While the margin of victory has generally been low in most of their games, O’ Neill will be keenly aware his side have overcome the challeneges of those tipped to compete with the champions for the 2011 title.

The ease at which Rovers overcame Dundalk on the opening day and St Pats two weeks later was particualry impressive, while a hard fought 1-0 victory away to Sligo proved this side can dig out results when needs be.

For the visitors, Craig Sives is definitely out with a hamstring injury while midfielders Chris Turner and Stephen O‘Donnell face late fitness test. Despite these setbacks, manager O’Neill is confident his side have enough strength in depth to see of the Drogs’ challenge.

He said: “We’ve had back-to-back away games over the last couple of weeks, but we’re looking forward to the match. We also know that all the expectation is on us, but we’re confident that we can do what we need to do in the game and get a result.

Despite the injuries to the squad, it’s hard to see anything other than a Rovers victory. They remain unbeaten in the league and you can’t help but get the feeling there is more to come from the Tallaght side. If players like Gary Twigg and Gary O’ Neill can find their form from last year, then it would be difficult for any side to compete with them. Drogheda are improving with every game, but this one is coming just to soon for the men from Louth.

Drogheda United
Injuries: None
Doubtful: None
Suspended: None

Shamrock Rovers
Injuries: Craig Sives (Hamstring)
Doubtful: Chris Turner (Calf) and Stephen O’ Donnel (hamstring) face late fitness tests
Suspended: None

Referee: Neil Doyle

Paddy Power Odds: Drogheda 11/2 Draw 5/2 Shamrock Rovers 1/2

Extratime.ie prediction: A 2-0 win for Rovers