Dundalk vs Drogheda United Predictions, Betting Tips and Match Previews in Ireland’s Premier Division. The bottom two in the League of Ireland Premier Division face off Friday evening, as Dundalk host Drogheda United at Oriel Park. Read on for our free predictions and tips.
League of Ireland Premier | Jul 12, 2024 at 7.45pm UK at Oriel Park
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Dundalk vs Drogheda United Predictions
Can Dundalk Secure Crucial Points Against Struggling Drogheda United?
Key Stats
– Dundalk have scored just 13 goals in 23 matches, the lowest in the league.
– Drogheda United have the worst away record, with zero wins and nine losses from 12 games.
– Dundalk have kept eight clean sheets in 11 home games, showing their defensive strength at Oriel Park.
The League of Ireland Premier Division’s bottom two teams, Dundalk and Drogheda United, will face off at Oriel Park on Friday evening. With both sides desperate for points to climb away from the relegation zone, this match is poised to be a crucial encounter in their respective campaigns.
Team Backgrounds and Current Form
Dundalk, historically one of Ireland’s most successful clubs, are experiencing a challenging season. Currently sitting ninth in the table, the Lilywhites have accumulated only 19 points from 23 matches. This disappointing run includes just four wins, highlighting their struggles throughout the campaign. They enter this match on the back of consecutive defeats to Waterford and Shamrock Rovers, which have further dented their confidence.
Drogheda United find themselves at the bottom of the table, having secured only 17 points from their 23 matches. Their record is dismal, with just three wins all season and the worst away record in the league. They have not won on the road, managing only three draws while suffering nine losses and conceding 26 goals in the process. Their last victory came against Dundalk in early May, but since then, they have failed to replicate that success.
Key Players and Expected Lineups
Dundalk will be without key players Andy Boyle, Jamie Gullan, and Dara Keane due to injuries. Gullan’s absence is particularly significant, as he is the team’s leading scorer with five goals. The expected starting lineup includes Munro in goal, with a defence of Davies, Johnson, Faulkner, and Keogh. Horgan, Mountney, Benson, Doyle, and Hakiki are set to feature in midfield, with Kenny leading the attack.
Drogheda United are also missing several players, including Jethren Barr, Zishim Bawa, Gary Deegan, and Aaron McNally. Their lineup is likely to feature Wogan as goalkeeper, with a defensive line of Quinn, Webster, Keaney, and Kane. Foley, Heeney, Ahui, and Davis are expected to form the midfield, while Markey and James-Taylor will lead the forward line.
Tactical Analysis and Gameplay Predictions
Dundalk’s strategy will likely focus on capitalising on their home advantage, aiming to secure a much-needed victory. Despite their struggles, they have managed to earn 14 points from their 11 home games, demonstrating a relative strength at Oriel Park. Their defensive solidity at home, with eight clean sheets in 11 matches, will be crucial in this encounter.
Drogheda United, meanwhile, must address their defensive vulnerabilities, having conceded 43 goals this season. Their away form is particularly concerning, with no wins and frequent heavy defeats. To stand a chance, they will need to tighten up at the back and look to exploit any opportunities on the counter-attack.
Key Areas and Player Duels
The midfield battle will be essential, with Dundalk’s Benson and Doyle looking to control the tempo against Drogheda’s Foley and Heeney. Benson’s creativity and ability to link up play will be vital for Dundalk, while Foley’s work rate and defensive contributions could help Drogheda in disrupting Dundalk’s rhythm.
In defence, Dundalk’s Faulkner and Johnson will need to be vigilant against the threat posed by Drogheda’s James-Taylor, who scored on his debut and has shown promise. Similarly, Drogheda’s Quinn and Webster must be prepared to handle the pace and movement of Dundalk’s Kenny.
Critique and Suggestions for Improvement
Dundalk’s primary issue has been their lack of goals, with only 13 scored in 23 matches. Improving their attacking efficiency is crucial if they are to move up the table. Manager Jon Daly must find a way to inspire his forwards and create more goal-scoring opportunities. Defensively, while they have been relatively solid at home, maintaining concentration throughout the match is essential to avoid lapses.
Drogheda United need to improve their defensive organisation urgently. Conceding 43 goals is a clear indication of their frailties at the back. Manager Kevin Doherty must instil greater discipline and better communication among his defenders. Additionally, increasing their attacking threat, especially in away games, is vital if they are to avoid relegation.
Managerial Analysis and Criticisms
Jon Daly’s tenure at Dundalk has been underwhelming. Despite the club’s history and resources, his side’s performances have been inconsistent, and his tactical approach often appears uninspired. Daly needs to adapt his strategies and find a way to motivate his players to deliver more consistent performances.
Kevin Doherty at Drogheda United has faced a tough task with limited resources. However, his inability to shore up the defence and improve the team’s away form has been a significant failing. While the squad lacks depth, Doherty must find ways to make his team more competitive and resilient, particularly in challenging away fixtures.
Expected Goals Averages and Betting Angles
Dundalk average a meagre 0.6 goals per game, the lowest in the league, which highlights their attacking struggles. Defensively, they concede 1.3 goals per game, reflecting a relatively balanced but uninspiring performance. Drogheda United, averaging one goal per game and conceding 1.9, suggest a match that could be tight and low-scoring.
Match Predictions
Best Bet: Dundalk to Win and Both Teams to Score
Given Dundalk’s stronger home form and Drogheda’s poor away record, a Dundalk victory seems likely. However, considering both teams’ defensive vulnerabilities, it is probable that both sides will find the net.
Correct Score: Dundalk 2-1 Drogheda United
Aligning with the best bet, a 2-1 scoreline for Dundalk appears plausible. While Dundalk’s attack is not prolific, their home advantage and Drogheda’s defensive issues suggest they will score more than once, but Drogheda’s ability to exploit defensive lapses could see them grab a goal.
Goalscorer Prediction: Eoin Kenny
With Jamie Gullan unavailable, Eoin Kenny is likely to be Dundalk’s main goal threat. Despite his modest scoring record, Kenny’s positioning and movement could see him find the net against Drogheda’s shaky defence.
First Team to Score: Dundalk
Given their home advantage and Drogheda’s defensive frailties, Dundalk are likely to open the scoring. They will aim to start strong and put early pressure on their opponents.
Innovative Market Prediction: Total Team Shots on Target Over 8.5
Both teams have shown a willingness to shoot, even if their conversion rates are low. Dundalk average 3.1 shots on target per game, and Drogheda average 3.6. In a match where both teams are desperate for points, expect plenty of attempts on goal.
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