Two teams with contrasting goals face off on Friday as Dundalk hosts Galway United at Oriel Park in the League of Ireland Premier division.
Dundalk, currently in the relegation playoff spot, aims to secure safety, while Galway United is chasing European competition, sitting sixth in the table.
Dundalk’s Current Form
Dundalk’s longstanding presence in the Irish top flight is under serious threat. The Lilywhites are ninth with 23 points, four points shy of safety, having played more matches than those above them.
They had a dismal start, failing to win any of their first 11 games, but have shown improvement under new manager Jon Daly, securing three wins and a draw in his nine matches.
Recent matches against relegation rivals Bohemians and Drogheda United have boosted their confidence.
Recent Performance
Last 6 Matches: LWLLWD
Key Players: Jamie Gullan (5 goals), Ryan O'Kane
Galway United’s Current Form
Galway United is enjoying a successful return to the top division since their relegation in 2017.
They currently sit sixth, aiming for a top-three finish to secure European competition. Despite a strong mid-season run, their recent form has been inconsistent, losing four of their last seven matches.
However, they have already defeated Dundalk twice this season, both times with a 2-0 scoreline.
Recent Performances
Last 6 Matches: LWLDWL
Key Players: Stephen Walsh
Team News
Dundalk
Dundalk will likely be without Andrew Boyle, Dara Keane, and Paul Doyle due to injuries. Jamie Gullan and Ryan O'Kane are expected to lead the attack.
Possible Lineup: Goddard; Mountney, Animasahun, Faulkner, Pike; Horgan, Hakiki, Benson, Dervin; Gullan, O'Kane
Galway United
Galway United has a full squad available with no recent injury concerns. They may retain the same lineup that recently defeated Waterford FC.
Possible Lineup: Clarke; Esua, Buckley, Brouder, Slevin; McCormack, Nugent; Keohane, Hickey, McCarthy; Walsh
Prediction
Despite Galway United's recent decline in form, they enter this match as favourites.
Dundalk's struggle this season, combined with Galway United's higher league position and previous victories over Dundalk, suggest a win for the visitors.
Our Prediction: Dundalk 0-1 Galway United
Galway Utd 
Dundalk 
