League Preview: Dundalk -v- Bohemians
Credit:
It’s tough at the top as Dundalk hope to stave off pressure from Cork City by getting a result against mid-table Bohemians. Kick-off for this match is 7.45pm this Friday.
DUNDALK
Dundalk currently sit four points above Cork, the closest of the chasing pack, but face Bohemians with the intent to maintain or extend that lead. The Lilywhites are so far undefeated in August, with them winning two and drawing two of their four matches, whilst also progressing further in the EA Sports Cup and FAI Cup. Last time out, Dundalk were away to Sligo Rovers.
Dundalk came away from the Showgrounds with an important point, as fringe player David McMillan saved the day with an equalizer in the 86th minute. The Louth team’s strength seems to be their squad depth, with their FAI Cup match against Galway an example. John Mountney and Donal McDermott got the goals as Dundalk came away with a 2-1 win. Stephen Kenny was pleased with the result, saying “We played some terrific football and we’re delighted to be through.”
The Dundalk manager told dundalkfc.com that he was weary of this week’s opponents, saying “Bohemians are a side who are in terrific form of late,” and that “they are a good team and are playing very well at the moment. They will give us a difficult match.” But Kenny believes that his side are able to cope with Bohs. He said “The players are confident and are on a real high. We’ve prepared well this week and are ready for the match.”
Dundalk don’t have many concerns coming into this league clash. Long term absentee Stephen O’Donnell is still out of action with the knee injury he picked up back in March. Defender Simon Kelly is doubtful for the game due to a calf problem.
BOHEMIANS
Bohemians have been Dundalk’s best friend in the last while as they took points off many of the teams that are behind them. Bohs drew with St. Patrick’s Athletic and Shamrock Rovers in recent weeks and have also defeated Cork City 2-0 in the league, prior to beating them in the FAI Cup as well. Bohs also won their last league match against Drogheda United.
Karl Moore‘s effort and a long awaited Jason Byrne goal helped secure Bohemians three points against Drogheda United, as they won the game 2-1. It’s hoped Byrne will start banging in the goals so Bohs can finish the league strongly. Dinny Corcoran also found the net recently, scoring both goals as Bohemians dumped Cork out of the FAI Cup. Heary was delighted for Corcoran because” he has had shots off the crossbar and he has kept going and got his just rewards over the weekend.”
Heary spoke to bohemianfc.com on his thoughts on Friday’s game and says that he is ready to face the table toppers but regrets that he can’t choose from a full squad. The Bohs manager said “I’d love to play them with a full-strength team but I still feel confident enough to go up and get a result.” Although Dundalk are backed to get the three points, Heary still has faith in his players. He said, “There’s nothing expected of us going to Dundalk but we’re definitely going to take the game to them. We want to go and win the game.”
Bohemians go into the match light on defenders. Dan Byrne and Anthony Murphy will miss the rest of the season through injuries while Dave Mulcahy will miss out due to personal reasons. Steven Beattie was sent off against Drogheda United and he will be suspended for the game too.
Referee:Derek Tomney
MATCH FACTS
Bohemians drew 1-1 at Oriel Park earlier this season but Dundalk won the later encounter between the sides 2-0. Last season, Dundalk won 2-0 and 3-0 against Bohs with the other game ending 1-1. Will we see a repeat?
Jason Byrne’s goal against Drogheda United was his fifth goal in the league but his first since a 1-1 draw against Derry City at the start of May.
Dundalk are undefeated at home this season, with only St. Patrick’s Athletic, Shamrock Rovers, and this week’s opponents Bohemians picking up any points at Oriel Park.
BETTING
Dundalk 4/9; Draw 29/10; Bohemians 13/2.
PREDICTION
With Bohemians missing defenders and Dundalk being unbreakable at home, I predict Dundalk 4-1 Bohemians.
Dundalk
Injured: Stephen O’Donnell
Doubtful:Simon Kelly
Suspended:None
Bohemians
Injured: Dan Byrne, Anthony Murphy
Doubtful: None
Suspended: Steven Beattie
Unavailable: Dave Mulcahy (family commitments)
