A match preview written by Matt O’Rourke
After a successful 2-0 win against Bohs in the North Dublin Derby, Shels go to the south side of the city to face Saint Pats in Inchicore. We still sit top of the league, 2 points ahead of Derry, and go in on very strong form heading into Friday.
Jon Daly’s side has struggled so far this season as things look, some key examples being the 1-0 loss to Bohemians in the opening round at home or the 1-0 win at home they struggled to get against Dundalk, a team that lost 5-0 the week beforehand.
I have to say I’m very confident heading into this Friday, we have had stronger form and I think we just have a stronger team at the moment, especially since a lot of Pats players have been banking below par, an example would be their goalkeeper on loan from Liverpool, Pitaluga.
I’d like to briefly touch on who I think will be important in our upcoming derby:
I know I sound like a broken record saying it but again Conor Kearns will be a fundamental member of our team. His goalkeeping ability is arguably the best in the league and he will be needed to stop the likes of Keating up front for Pats.
Gav Molloy had a solid performance last week in Dalymount and if he can continue this form he’ll be unreal against Pats. His defending is unreal and he’ll be a crucial part of the squad.
I’d also like to mention that Liam Burt will also have a massive role to play this Friday in Inchicore. I couldn’t be more thrilled with his performance so far this season and hopefully his performance this Friday will carry our form onwards.
Finally , Sean Gannon has also been amazing for us, especially in supporting our wingers, not just his defensive ability. Hopefully he shows us another great performance this Friday.
As for Pats players I really only think one player can have a major impact and that’s Ruairi Keating. He’s an elite attacker and his shooting ability is outstanding and he might give our strong defence a run for their money.
As for score predictions I can see Shelbourne walking away with a 2-1 win over the Inchicore Side. As previously stated I think we have the stronger squad going into Friday and will comfortably out compete Pats, although I don’t see them going down without a fight which is why I’m sticking at 2-1 instead of 2-0.
Hopefully I’m correct in my predictions, roll on Friday!
UTFR