Drogheda United -v- St. Patrick's Athletic

• P.J. Murray
• Thu, Oct 27 2011




Pete Mahon brings his St Pats side to Hunky Dorys Park for the final game of the season. (Kick-off 7:45pm)

 

Essentially this game can be marked down as a dead rubber as neither side can move position. Until a few weeks ago Pats were viable title contenders, but their challenge came off the rails along with an FAI Cup semi-final defeat to First Division side Shelbourne.

 

The Drogs will be looking to bounce back from a narrow 1-0 defeat to local rivals Dundalk last week, but Pats have also been on somewhat of a downward slide.

 

Their last win was against a Bohemians side who have had their worst finish to a season in quite some years. They beat the Gypsies 2-0 at Dalymount.

 

Drogheda’s last home win came when they beat Galway United 1-0 back in July, since then they have had several draws with Dundalk in the Cup and league, but their best form is saved for their travels.

 

Pats can complete a whitewash of the Drogheda side if they win, so far this season the aggregate score of the three games is 11-1 in favour of the Dubliners.

 

Mick Cooke believes that despite the season ending tomorrow that for him, there will be no decrease in his workload. He is also adamant that there are several players who need to impress.  “Well all the hard work starts after tomorrow, the build up to next season is underway and I'll be searching for players to add to the squad that we have. It's been a good season, we achieved what we set out to and survive. 

 

“In terms of position tomorrow night, neither side can move, but my players will be playing for pride and they will want to impress me or anyone else watching as they fight for a contract at this club or maybe another. “

 

The former Mons manager will have to plan without the services of Jack Flynn and Colin O'Brien who remain out for the rest of the season. Stephen Quigley and Brian Gannon picked up injuries last week and are out for the game.

 

Pats will be without the services of Stephen Bradley who is suspended for the clash. Gary Rogers will be available for selection after returning from suspension while Sean O’Connor has recovered from injury.

 

Drogheda United

Injured: Jack Flynn, Colm O’Brien, Stephen Quigley and Brian Gannon

Doubtful: None

Suspended: None

 

St Patrick's Athletic

Injured: None

Doubtful: None

Suspended: Stephen Bradley

 

Referee: Richie Winter

Paddypower.com odds: Drogheda United 6/1, Draw 11/4, St Pats 4/9

Extratime.ie prediction: With little to play for Drogheda could sneak this one 1-0.