For the second week in a row Monaghan United will enter another lion’s den when they travel to Shelbourne. We are now commencing our third and final series of games and the sides have met twice already this season.  Shelbourne are one of only three sides that have defeated Monaghan United this season.  United played there first game of the season at Tolka Park and led Shels by a goal for most of the game and were disappointed when the home side got back on level terms to take a share of the spoils.

On Friday last Shelbourne had an impressive away win when they defeated Waterford United by three goals to nil and they would still see themselves in contention for one of the play off spots.

Monaghan United had an equally inspiring result at the Brandywell last weekend, they took an early lead and had their second goal before the first half hour had elapsed. A goal from a penalty got Derry back into the game but in the end United ensured the points also from the penalty spot and it was Derry’s first defeat at home of the season. Also having wins away at such other revered grounds as Turners Cross, Jackman Park and the RSC, Monaghan United should be capable of adding Tolka Park to the list. Monaghan United have not lost away from home in any competition for the past 11 months.

Once again Mick Cooke has a near full squad to select from, Karl Bermingham who wasn’t available for the Derry game returns, they is some doubt about Brian Gartland who picked up a knock in the same game. Shelbourne will be well aware of the threat from their ex-player Philly Hughes who was excellent on his previous visit there.

If United can continue in their recent vein of form then a share of the spoils is the least they can expect.

The away support is gradually building and there is no doubt that they were the 12^th. man in the Derry game and rumor has it that most of them had Monaghan backed at 4/1 to win, lets hope they can continue in their winning ways.