Shelbourne take on the visitors Dundalk in the round 20 match of Irish Premier Division. The match will be played on Thursday, June 6th at Tolka Park (Dublin).
The Reds suffered a rather unexpected defeat in the previous round, losing to mid-table Sligo Rovers (1-2). In the upcoming match, the hosts must do everything to redeem themselves in front of their fans and to prevent losing their lead to rivals Derry City, who are now just two points behind. Shelbourne are having their best season in many years and is seriously contending for the championship. Before the loss to Sligo, the team had won three consecutive league matches: against Waterford (1-0), St. Patrick's (2-1), and the reigning champions Shamrock Rovers (2-0).
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Dundalk has been fighting for survival in the top league for several years, teetering on the brink of relegation to the second division. The team has fallen far behind the crucial eighth spot again this time. Most likely, the Lilywhites will spend the rest of the season battling with Drogheda to determine who will be directly relegated and who will fight in the relegation playoffs. Playing away from home is Dundalk's weak point. While they can take points from anyone at home, they have suffered seven defeats in ten away matches in the championship. Notable recent losses include those against Galway United (0-2), Waterford (1-4), and the aforementioned Drogheda (1-2).
After much deliberation, I will still bet on the home team in this Dublin derby. The teams are at completely opposite ends of the spectrum this season. And yes, while the rivals are based in the same city, they play on different stadiums. Specifically, Dundalk looks very weak away from their home ground. Interestingly, in the last two encounters at Shelbourne's stadium, the hosts emerged victorious: 1-0 and 2-1. My prediction is a home win.
Prediction for the match: Shelbourne to win.
