1st Division Airtricity League of Ireland

Shelbourne –v- Monaghan United

This is a top of the table clash, Shelbourne go into the game as league leaders just two points ahead of visitors Monaghan United and a win for United could see them leap frog Shels.  Both sides after five games are unbeaten. Tolka Park is a tough venue for all visiting sides but in recent seasons Monaghan United hasn’t been overawed in this fortress and have accounted well for themselves.

Shels go into this game after a comprehensive 4-0, win away to Athlone Town. The winning score line of 1-0 for United against Longford Town was not as comprehensive but had they taken the chances that came their way it could have been as impressive, that said they were nearly undone from a free kick in the dying seconds when Keith Gillespie’s strike singed the woodwork.

It will be United’s first foray to the Capital under the stewardship of Roddy Collins and he is relishing everything about the trip.  Collins will have his strongest hand to pick from so far this season, he will welcome back his captain Dom Tierney, Alan Byrne and the Brennan brothers, Aidan Collins is still doubtful. Declan “Fabio” O’ Brien has made a big impact in the two games he has played in.

United’s defence will have to cope with Philly Hughes who was their lead striker last season, against Athlone Shel’s played Hughes alone up front. Dave Rogers will probably be assigned the role of keeping tabs on Hughes which should in itself be an interesting confrontation.

A share of the points would be a good result for United but a win is well within their capability, apart from the cork game it will be their strongest test so far.

Forecast:  1-1

Injuries

 Aidan Collins

Suspensions:

None

Last  5 Results.

Next Five Games

Manager Roddy Collins says, “Monaghan United like their hosts Shelbourne are unbeaten after their opening five games and I believe that this trip to Tolka Park will be the! acid test for us.

Ever since their demotion a few seasons ago Shels have retained the qualities of a Premier Division side and in each of these seasons have just been pipped at the post for promotion. Shels who have the budget that has enabled them to strengthen their side from last season especially up front by the acquisition of players such as Conan Byrne and raiding the Monaghan United squad of three key players from last season Philly Hughes. Karl Bermingham and Barry Clancy so I have no doubt that they will hard to knock off the leading spot they already occupy. I am well aware of what my task will be in Tolka Park. The very name Tolka Park evokes great memor! ies and fills me with emotion. It is probably the one ground that I would love to get a result in and if there was some way I could give my side a transfusion of my emotions we would be half way there.

Our performance last week against Longford Town was much more comprehensive than the 1-0 final score might suggests since my arrival at Gortakeegan, I have been bedeviled by the absence of players either through injury or suspension, thankfully the situation has improved and I welcome the return of Dom Tierney, Alan Byrne and Ryan Brennan. One of the positives so far this season is that we have scored in each game and the recent addition of Fabio O’ Brien should enhance this.

Well done to young Kevin Loughran for scoring his first international goal against Belgium in the under 16 International for Ireland and Fergal Mc. Mahon also performed well in the game,there are a couple of other young locals coming through so Monaghan’s football future is looking promising.

Tolka Park is a tough cauldron for any team to enter but I believe my side is well up for the challenge.  I am looking forward to my visit, to a good game and renewing old acquaintances”.

Yours in football,

Roddy Collins.