St Patrick's Athl. will look to close the gap on league leaders Shamrock Rovers when they host Dundalk at Richmond Park on Friday. The Saints, currently fifth in the Premier Division with 52 points from 36 games (13W-13D-10L), are 14 points behind the Red Army but remain in contention for European qualification. Their recent form shows five consecutive draws (DDDDD), including a 0-0 stalemate against Shelbourne on November 1, 2025, highlighting their resilience but also their struggle to secure wins.
What’s at stake for St Patrick’s Athl.?
With Shamrock Rovers pulling away at the top, St Patrick’s Athl. must capitalize on every opportunity to climb the table. A victory against Dundalk would not only boost their morale but also keep their slim title hopes alive. Manager Stephen Kenny’s side has scored 42 goals this season while conceding 32, giving them a +10 goal difference, but their inconsistency has cost them dearly in recent weeks.
Dundalk’s struggles and recent form
Dundalk arrive in Dublin on the back of a three-match losing streak in the league, including a surprising 2-1 defeat to Drogheda. However, their 3-1 FAI Cup win over St Mocha’s FC last Friday may have provided a much-needed confidence boost. Ciaran Kilduff’s side sits fourth in the table, seven points behind St Patrick’s Athl., and will be eager to end their poor run with a positive result.
Team news and key absences
St Patrick’s Athl. will be without right-back Ronan Boyce, who has missed the last two games, while Zack Elbouzedi and Max Mata remain sidelined with injuries. Aidan Keena and Kian Leavy are expected to support striker Ryan Edmondson up front. Dundalk, meanwhile, will miss forwards Norman Garbett and Daniel Mullen, with Leonardo Gaxha likely to lead the attack alongside Mayowa Animasahun and Daryl Horgan.
What comes next?
Both teams will be desperate for a win to revive their seasons. St Patrick’s Athl. must find a way to turn draws into victories if they are to challenge for the top three, while Dundalk needs to rediscover their early-season form to secure a European spot. With the title race heating up, this clash could be a turning point for either side.
