High stakes in Dublin derbies as Pat’s and Shels clash

THERE are two Dublin Derbies taking place on Friday evening, and St Patrick’s Athletic form against Shelbourne would appear that they have their number this year.

The stakes are riding high on the results of Friday night’s games, with the Saints still in the title race, sitting just four points behind Shamrock Rovers in second place.

Should Rovers drop points against Bohemian, and St Pat’s earn three points at Tolka Park, it could cut the deficit to the minimum.

What this means is that the Dublin Derbies could ultimately be the deciding factor in the race for the SSE Airtricity League of Ireland Premier Division title.

Since Jon Daly was appointed as interim manager and then permanent first team manager, the team have enjoyed a good run of form, winning 10 and drawing three of their last 15 games.

This is a slightly better win percentage than the league leaders Rovers in the same period, who have won nine, drawn three and lost three since May 5.

The Inchicore outfit want will have an opportunity to keep the pressure on when they meet Shelbourne at 7.45pm on Friday.

Head to head, St Pat’s have beaten Shels three times in the league so far this season.

Before the last meeting, which was in June, Ballyboden native Damien Duff, who manages Shelbourne, was quick to big up the rivalry between the sides.

“Contrary to what some people say, there is indeed a rivalry between Shels and Pats and that has brought some intense games, they’ve been tight matches, hard fought,” Duff said.

“The recent game at Tolka was a real disappointment for us. The games this season, both decided by two set pieces that we were not good enough on.”

After that, Shels succumbed to another set-piece, this time a wonderful free kick from Pat’s winger Jake Mulraney.

Across all three games so far, they were tense affairs and St Pat’s won by the minimum in each, with all goals have coming from set-pieces.

For full access to all content on Echo.ie and to support the continuation of local news and local journalism in your community subscribe HERE.

Thanks for your ongoing support.