St Patrick’s Athletic vs Shamrock Rovers predictions ahead of this Irish Premier Division clash. St Patrick’s Athletic face Shamrock Rovers at Richmond Park on Thursday, a crucial match for both ends of the League of Ireland Premier Division. Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.
League of Ireland Premier | Jun 13, 2024 at 7.45pm UK at Richmond Park
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St Patricks vs Shamrock Rovers Predictions
Shamrock Rovers Poised to Capitalise on St Patrick’s Struggles
Key Stats
– Johnny Kenny has scored eight goals in his last nine appearances for Shamrock Rovers.
– St Patrick’s Athletic have managed just one win in their last six matches under Stephen Kenny.
– Shamrock Rovers have kept seven clean sheets in their 20 matches this season.
Thursday night sees a critical match in the League of Ireland Premier Division as St Patrick’s Athletic host Shamrock Rovers at Richmond Park. This game has significant implications for both ends of the table, with the Saints fighting to stay clear of the relegation zone while Shamrock Rovers look to close the gap on the league leaders.
Match Preview
St Patrick’s Athletic have endured a tough season and are currently eighth in the table. With only 24 points from 22 matches, their performance is a far cry from their top-three finishes in recent years. New manager Stephen Kenny has struggled to inspire a turnaround, with the team managing just one win in his first six games. Their most recent fixtures include a disappointing 3-2 loss to Dundalk and a goalless draw against Drogheda United.
In contrast, Shamrock Rovers, who have dominated the league in recent years, are experiencing a more challenging campaign. They currently sit third, seven points behind Derry City but with games in hand. A recent 2-0 win over Drogheda United helped them recover from a defeat to Shelbourne. Stephen Bradley’s men are determined to keep their title defence alive with another victory.
Expected Lineups and Tactical Approach
St Patrick’s Athletic
The Saints are likely to field a front line featuring Ruairi Keating, who has been their main goal threat with five goals this season. The young Mason Melia is expected to retain his place, providing energy and creativity. Cian Kavanagh may also feature to bolster the attack. In midfield, the experienced duo of Jamie Lennon and Chris Forrester will aim to control the game. Defensive stability is a concern, especially with potential absences of Ryan McLaughlin and Conor Keeley.
Predicted Lineup: Rogers; Bolger, Grivosti, Redmond, Turner; Lennon, Forrester; Melia, Leavy, Mulraney; Keating.
Shamrock Rovers
Shamrock Rovers are likely to maintain the same lineup that secured their win against Drogheda United. Johnny Kenny, fresh from international duty, will lead the attack alongside Aaron Greene. Markus Poom’s absence due to international duty could be felt in midfield, but Aaron McEneff and Conan Noonan are expected to cover. Defensively, the trio of Darragh Nugent, Lee Grace, and Markus Poom (if available) will aim to keep it tight at the back.
Predicted Lineup: Pohls; Nugent, Poom, Grace; Farrugia, Noonan, McEneff, O’Sullivan; Burke; Kenny, Greene.
Detailed Analysis
St Patrick’s Athletic Offensive and Defensive Strategies
Offensively, St Patrick’s Athletic have struggled to find consistency. Their attack relies heavily on set-pieces and moments of individual brilliance rather than cohesive team play. Players like Ruairi Keating and Mason Melia provide sporadic threats, but the overall lack of fluidity in their attacking movements has hindered their goal-scoring output, which stands at a modest 22 goals in 22 matches.
Defensively, they have been vulnerable, conceding 26 goals. The absence of key defenders due to injuries has not helped their cause, forcing manager Stephen Kenny to make frequent changes to the backline. This lack of stability has often left them exposed, particularly against teams with strong attacking prowess.
Shamrock Rovers Offensive and Defensive Strategies
Shamrock Rovers, on the other hand, have a more balanced approach. Offensively, they boast a potent attack, with Johnny Kenny and Aaron Greene both in excellent form. Kenny, in particular, has been a revelation, scoring eight goals this season. The team’s ability to create chances from open play and set-pieces makes them a constant threat.
Defensively, they have been solid but not invincible. Despite conceding 20 goals, they have managed to keep seven clean sheets. Their backline, led by Lee Grace, has been effective in neutralising threats, although occasional lapses have cost them points. The absence of key players like Roberto Lopes has occasionally disrupted their defensive harmony.
Key Players and Individual Performances
St Patrick’s Athletic
- Ruairi Keating: The forward has been a rare bright spot, with five goals to his name. His ability to find the net will be crucial if the Saints are to secure a positive result.
- Jamie Lennon: A midfield stalwart, Lennon’s role in breaking up play and initiating attacks will be pivotal.
Shamrock Rovers
- Johnny Kenny: The on-loan Celtic striker has been in blistering form, with eight goals. His sharpness in front of goal will be a key factor.
- Aaron Greene: Greene’s experience and goal-scoring ability complement Kenny, making them a formidable duo.
Analysis of Expected Goals (xG)
St Patrick’s Athletic’s xG figures suggest they have underperformed offensively. Despite creating several chances, their conversion rate has been poor. Defensively, their xG against indicates they concede more goals than expected, highlighting defensive lapses.
Shamrock Rovers’ xG aligns more closely with their actual performance. Offensively, they convert a fair proportion of their chances, reflecting their efficiency. Defensively, their xG against is relatively low, consistent with their solid defensive displays.
Key Areas and Player Duels
The midfield battle will be crucial. St Patrick’s Athletic’s Jamie Lennon and Chris Forrester will need to dominate the central areas to disrupt Shamrock Rovers’ rhythm. On the wings, the duel between Melia and Shamrock’s wing-backs could be decisive. In attack, Ruairi Keating versus Shamrock’s defenders will be a key contest, while Johnny Kenny will look to exploit any defensive weaknesses in the Saints’ backline.
Gameplay Prediction
St Patrick’s Athletic are likely to adopt a cautious approach, focusing on defensive solidity and looking to exploit set-piece opportunities. Shamrock Rovers, with their superior attacking options, will aim to control possession and create numerous chances. Their high pressing game is expected to force mistakes from the Saints’ defence.
Suggestions for Improvement
St Patrick’s Athletic
- Defensive Organisation: Improving defensive coordination and reducing individual errors are critical.
- Offensive Cohesion: Developing more structured attacking patterns to increase goal-scoring opportunities.
Shamrock Rovers
- Away Consistency: Maintaining their defensive solidity on the road will be key to sustaining their title challenge.
- Managing Key Absences: Ensuring the squad can cope with the absence of key players due to injuries or international duty.
Strengths and Weaknesses
St Patrick’s Athletic
- Strengths: Effective in set-pieces, capable of individual brilliance.
- Weaknesses: Defensive vulnerabilities, lack of attacking cohesion.
Shamrock Rovers
- Strengths: Balanced attack, solid defence, efficient in creating and converting chances.
- Weaknesses: Occasional defensive lapses, reliance on key players.
Managerial Critique
Stephen Kenny’s tenure at St Patrick’s Athletic has been underwhelming. His inability to stabilise the defence and inspire a consistent attacking performance has been a significant issue. The team’s position in the table reflects the need for tactical refinement and better player utilisation.
Stephen Bradley of Shamrock Rovers, while successful in past seasons, has faced challenges this term. His side’s occasional lapses and reliance on key players like Johnny Kenny have been points of criticism. Bradley needs to ensure his team maintains consistency to challenge for the title.
Predictions
Best Bet: Shamrock Rovers to Win to Nil
Given Shamrock Rovers’ recent form and St Patrick’s Athletic’s struggles in front of goal, a win to nil for the visitors seems the most likely outcome. Shamrock’s solid defence, combined with St Patrick’s inability to convert chances, supports this prediction.
Correct Score Prediction: St Patrick’s Athletic 0-2 Shamrock Rovers
Based on the current form and defensive capabilities of both teams, a 2-0 victory for Shamrock Rovers is a reasonable prediction. Johnny Kenny and Aaron Greene are likely to find the net, while Shamrock’s defence should be able to keep a clean sheet.
Goalscorer Prediction: Johnny Kenny to Score Anytime
Johnny Kenny’s form has been exceptional, with eight goals this season. His ability to capitalise on defensive errors and his sharpness in front of goal make him a prime candidate to score in this match.
First Half Result Prediction: Shamrock Rovers to Lead at Half Time
Shamrock Rovers’ tendency to start strong, coupled with St Patrick’s slow starts, suggests that the visitors will likely be leading at half-time. The attacking prowess of Kenny and Greene is expected to put them ahead early on.
Innovative Market Prediction: Total Team Shots on Target for Shamrock Rovers Over 5.5
Shamrock Rovers’ attacking efficiency and St Patrick’s defensive frailties suggest the visitors will have plenty of opportunities to test the goalkeeper. With players like Kenny and Greene in form, over 5.5 shots on target is a strong prediction.
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