KIlduff: Dundalk FC set for “a proper battle” against Shels tonight
The Lilywhites welcome Shelbourne to Oriel Park for Premier Division fixture
Dundalk FC aim to put their recent defeat behind them when they host Shelbourne at Oriel Park for a Premier Division encounter tonight, kick-off at 7.45pm.
Ciaran Kilduff's side were beaten 4-0 by St Patrick’s Athletic at home on Monday, leaving the Lilywhites fourth in the table. Shelbourne make the trip to Co Louth sitting seventh, on 36 points from 30 matches.
It will be the fourth league meeting between the clubs this season, and there has been little between them so far. Dundalk won a five-goal contest at Tolka Park in April, but Shelbourne have since recorded back-to-back 2-1 victories over the Lilywhites.
Most recent head-to-head results:
3rd July - Shelbourne FC 2-1 Dundalk FC
1st May - Dundalk FC 1-2 Shelbourne FC
3rd April - Shelbourne FC 2-3 Dundalk FC
In Dundalk team news, JR Wilson, Tyreke Wilson and Mayowa Animasahun will be assessed ahead of the game, while midfielder Keith Buckley is available again following suspension.
Speaking ahead of the game, Kilduff told the official club website, “It's a massive game at Oriel Park on Friday night and one that we're really looking forward to.
“We were all very disappointed with the result and performance on Monday night. We've had honest conversations within the group about it, and we're working hard to put things right. The important thing now is how we respond.
“This is a proper game at the business end of the season, and it's exactly the type of fixture we wanted to be involved in when we set our goals at the beginning of the year.
“We'll give absolutely everything to make sure we react in a positive way. The players have shown throughout the season that they're a strong, committed group and they're a pleasure to work with.
“I have every confidence that they'll respond in the right manner and put in a performance that reflects the standards they've set for themselves.
“We know the importance of the occasion, and we hope to see a big crowd in Oriel Park. The atmosphere can make a huge difference, and when our supporters get behind the team, they give us an extra lift.
“It's shaping up to be a big night, and we'll do our part by giving everything we have. We're looking forward to a proper battle against Shelbourne and hopefully delivering a performance that our supporters can be proud of.”