Preview: Dundalk vs. Shamrock Rovers - prediction, team news, lineups

The hosts are undefeated in their previous seven matches, but the last time they lost just so happened to be against their opponents this week.

Match preview

Dundalk have been in fantastic form heading into this game as they are enjoying a seven-match undefeated run right now that they will be pushing to extend once again on Friday.

During that period they have won six times, and their previous two matches have also resulted in the squad earning clean sheets as well, showcasing their defensive capabilities.

Stephen McDonnell witnessed his team defeat St Patrick's Thistle by a goal to nil in their most recent outing with Daniel Kelly proving to be the difference-maker on the day.

That result kept them within touching distance of the league leaders as they sit eight points behind right now while also boasting a game in hand.

The previous time that Dundalk played against Shamrock Rovers was the last time they lost, with that match finishing 1-0 after a goal from Daniel Mandroiu, while Brian Gartland was also sent off.

A repeat of that would help put the visitors in cruise control at the top of the table, which is exactly what Stephen Bradley will be wanting to see from his team.

Rovers were able to bounce back from only their third defeat of the season when they faced Shelbourne in their previous league outing, with goals from Richie Towell and Rory Gaffney helping them return to winning ways.

That is a feeling they have been used to throughout this campaign as the league leaders have been dominant in their displays, having scored more than any other team while also conceding the least.

Away from home is where Shamrock Rovers have suffered all three of their defeats so far though, as they have not been as strong on their travels throughout this season.

The fact that Dundalk are undefeated at home is something that they will be wary of heading into this one, which should provide a major challenge for both teams.

Dundalk League of Ireland Premier form:

Shamrock Rovers League of Ireland Premier form:

Team News

Robbie Benson, Mark Connolly and Bradley were all brought back into the starting lineup for the recent victory against St Patrick's Athletic, and they will likely retain their places in the team.

John Mountney is back as an option following his injury spell, but Dundalk will no longer have the services of Daniel Williams as his loan spell at the club has come to an end.

The visitors will have a boost from Mandroiu being available once again following his suspension which means Gary O'Neill could end up dropping out of the team.

Graham Burke has been a goalscoring threat for Shamrock Rovers as of late, while Rory Gaffney will be hoping to follow up on the goal he scored in their previous outing.

Dundalk possible starting lineup:

Shepperd; Macari, Boyle, Connolly, Leahy; Adams, Sloggett; Bradley, Benson, Kelly; Hoban

Shamrock Rovers possible starting lineup:

Mannus; Hoare, Lopes, Kavanagh; Lyons, Mandroiu, Towell, Finn; Burke, Gaffney, Watts

We say: Dundalk 2-1 Shamrock Rovers

It is a crucial top-of-the-league clash on Friday, and because of that, it is likely to be quite a cagey and closely contested battle between the two teams.

Shamrock Rovers might be sat top at the moment, but they have struggled away from home this season which is why this provides Dundalk the perfect chance to close the gap.

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