Dundalk FC set for Hoops test in Tallaght on Friday
The Lilywhites will face leaders Shamrock Rovers at Tallaght Stadium
Dundalk FC travel to Tallaght Stadium to take on league leaders Shamrock Rovers in the SSE Airtricity League Premier Men's Division on Friday night (kick-off 8pm). The match will be shown live on Virgin Media Two.
The Lilywhites have taken four points from their two league meetings with Rovers this season, winning at Oriel Park and earning a draw in Tallaght earlier in the campaign.
Dundalk manager Ciarán Kilduff told the club website ahead of the game: “We're looking forward to the challenge of facing the champions, the league leaders and a side that continues to set the standard in Irish football.
“We have a huge amount of respect for Shamrock Rovers and what they've achieved, but our focus will be on making the best account of ourselves, just as we've tried to do every week this season.
“We know what we're capable of. We beat Rovers in our last home meeting and picked up a draw in Tallaght earlier in the campaign, so if we reach the levels we know we can, we're confident we can give them a real test.
“At the same time, we understand the magnitude of the task that lies ahead. There were plenty of positives to take from last week's performance.
“We felt we controlled large periods of the game and were disappointed not to come away with the win, but football moves quickly and there's no bigger game to focus on than Shamrock Rovers away.
“We've picked up a few injury setbacks, with Tyreke Wilson's recovery taking a little longer than expected and Shane Tracy also dealing with a back problem, while J.R. Wilson and Danny Mullen remain unavailable.
“However, we've strengthened the squad during the transfer window, and there are players ready to step in and take their opportunity.
“The players are looking forward to it. It should be a great occasion in Tallaght, and we're excited for the challenge."
In Dundalk team news, Egor Vassenin is unavailable under the terms of his loan agreement, while Shane Tracey, Tyreke Wilson, JR Wilson, Danny Mullen, Norman Garbett and Harvey Warren all miss out through injury.
2026 meetings:
23rd February: Shamrock Rovers 1-1 Dundalk FC
15th May: Dundalk FC 1-0 Shamrock Rovers