Runaway leaders Shamrock Rovers aim to tighten their grip on top spot in the League of Ireland Premier Division when they host bottom-placed Cork City at Tallaght Stadium on Friday. While the Hoops are targeting a third win in a week, the visitors are desperate to end a 10-match winless streak.
Match Overview
Shamrock Rovers continued their dominant season with a comeback 2-1 victory over Drogheda United on Monday, extending their unbeaten run to 10 games. With 42 points from 21 matches, Stephen Bradley’s men now sit nine clear of second-placed Bohemians and are eyeing a potential 12-point cushion with another win here.
Tallaght has been a fortress lately, with the Hoops unbeaten in five at home and keeping four consecutive clean sheets. Their only home defeat came back in February, underlining their consistency across the campaign.
Meanwhile, Cork City are firmly rooted at the foot of the table following a 2-0 defeat to Bohemians. Gerard Nash’s newly-promoted side have not won in 10 games and are now two points behind Sligo Rovers and 10 adrift of guaranteed safety. Away form has been particularly poor, with zero wins and just two draws from nine outings.
The last time these teams met, Cork held Rovers to a 1-1 draw in May, thanks to a spirited second-half performance and a late Freddie Anderson goal.
Team News
Shamrock Rovers will be without midfielder Matt Healy due to suspension, with Daniel Mandroiu expected to slot into the central role. Adam Matthews is also unavailable, meaning Bradley is likely to deploy a defensive trio of Lee Grace, Roberto Lopes and Cory O’Sullivan.
Young striker Michael Noonan continues to build experience from the bench, while Aaron Greene and Graham Burke should spearhead the attack.
Cork City are missing Milan Bernhard Mbeng through suspension, with Harry Nevin expected to deputise at right-back. Conor Drinan and Ruairi Keating remain long-term absentees, though wing-back Benny Couto could return to the squad after injury.
Freddie Anderson and Darragh Crowley will again anchor the back line, while Maguire and Daniels provide attacking options up front.
Tactical Review
Shamrock Rovers operate in a fluid 3-4-1-2, relying on quick switches of play, wingback involvement, and intricate movement from Burke and Greene. Mandroiu’s inclusion adds an extra layer of creativity in midfield, which could help unlock Cork’s deep block.
Cork will likely adopt a 5-3-2 out of possession, hoping to frustrate and counter via wide transitions. Their best chance will be to limit space behind the lines and set up for set pieces and quick breaks.
How to Watch
The League of Ireland Premier Division clash will be streamed live on LOITV.ie. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:45 PM IST (7:45 PM WAT) on Friday, June 21.
Predictions
Softfootball Prediction: Shamrock Rovers 3-1 Cork City
Shamrock Rovers are in imperious form, and despite Cork’s previous draw against them, it’s hard to see lightning striking twice. Expect the league leaders to dominate possession and take full advantage of Cork’s travel woes — though the visitors may sneak a consolation.