Preview written by Matt O’Rourke
So far the Auld Reds have had a mighty start to the season, getting 7 points from a possible 9 and sitting joint top of the table. A draw away in horrible conditions, defeating the champions at home and a notable win on the road against Sligo, we head into this game very strong.
This momentum will hopefully see us with another 3 points going into Bohs away on the Friday. Our start to the season has been ideal.
Let’s touch on who I think will be key for this match:
Paddy Barret put in a strong shift on Friday, and is looking very strong this season. He just takes no nonsense at the back and is really showing his strengths in these first few games.
Another defender I would pick is Sean Gannon. Our right back has shown his experience multiple times and has just put in work and got us results. His defending is solid and will be crucial on Monday.
Again, I hate to repeat myself so many times but Mark Coyle will be critical to our performance. He’s amazing in that midfield and is forming great passes while also making great challenges, all the while leading his team. I have to say, in my opinion, he’s the best captain this year so far. I just haven’t seen any other captain put in great performances and leading their team like Coyler does.
I can also see Dean Williams, John Martin amd possibly Keith Ward playing at some point to help rotate the squad so we can be fully rested for Bohs. These will need to put in a shift to keep us top of the table, and although we haven’t seen much of them I think coming off the bench they’ve been very strong and will be good for our bench on Monday.
Now let’s talk Galway:
Galway are looking very strong for a newly promoted team. Their first 3 games are a loss to pats at home , a good 2-0 win to Dundalk away and a 2-1 win to Waterford at home.
I only have one key player really for Galway and it’s David Hurley. He’s a solid midfielder and has been very good for them. He’s able to form plays and is a very strong player.
Now if we’re to talk about score predictions, I can see Shelbourne winning 3-1. I think we are a much stronger squad and we’ll just be able to get out there and get a result.
Any Shelbourne fans reading, make sure you get to Tolka and make the atmosphere electric as usual. I thank you for reading my Preview for the game this Monday.
UTFR