Dundalk FC look to extend unbeaten run against the Shannonsiders

Dundalk FC are back at Oriel Park tonight, as they host Treaty United in the SSE Airtricity First Division.

The Lilywhites sit top of the table and are unbeaten after 18 games and are aiming to tighten their grip on promotion.

Ciarán Kilduff’s men have taken 42 points so far, with 12 wins and six draws. It’s been a season built on consistency, resilience, and a strong home record, something the manager is hoping to see continue.

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Speaking ahead of the game, Kilduff said: “We’ve got nine home games to try and win a league, to get the club back to where it belongs.

“We’re unbeaten, top of the table, packed with young local lads giving everything. But we need more, all of us, all at once.

“Can we knit this whole club together and push it on? Can we fill the place, make Oriel a fortress and drag us over the line?”

The teams have already met twice this season, and on both occasions, the Limerick side clawed their way back to earn a draw.

Back in March, Dundalk were cruising after goals from Aodh Dervin and Sean McHale put them 2-0 up, only for Treaty to strike twice late on and steal a point.

In April at Markets Field, captain Daryl Horgan fired the Lilywhites ahead, but Yousef Mahdy responded to make it 1-1.

In team news, Dundalk will have to dig into their squad depth tonight. Seán Keogh and Mayowa Animasahun are both suspended, while Ethen Vaughan and Norman Garbett remain sidelined.

Defender Conor O'Keeffe is still "a number of weeks away" from returning. New signing JR Wilson will not be eligible until the transfer window opens, and Gbemi Arubi is out with a groin issue but may return next week.