Shelbourne aim to build momentum in their Premier Division title defence on Friday when they welcome Derry City to Tolka Park. With just two points separating the sides in mid-table, this clash could have big implications for European qualification hopes heading into the second half of the campaign.
Match Overview
Last season’s champions Shelbourne have had a mixed title defence, sitting fifth with 30 points from 21 matches. While Damien Duff’s men remain just three points off second place, a 12-point gap separates them from league leaders Shamrock Rovers.
They come into this encounter boosted by a narrow 1-0 win over St Patrick’s Athletic but have won only two of their last six outings. However, a return to Tolka Park – where they’ve picked up 16 points in 11 matches – offers an ideal platform to keep climbing.
Derry City, meanwhile, sit two points behind Shelbourne in sixth with two games in hand. Tiernan Lynch’s side have hit a rough patch, going four games without a win, including last weekend’s 1-1 draw with Galway United. Still, a strong result on Friday could revive their push for the top four.
These teams have traded blows in 2025 – Shelbourne winning 3-1 at home in April, while Derry responded with a 2-0 win in the reverse fixture at Brandywell in May.
Team News
Shelbourne report no new injury concerns ahead of Friday’s fixture. Midfielder Mark Coyle is expected to be central again, while Ali Coote and Sean Boyd will lead the line in Duff’s preferred 3-4-3 formation.
Derry City are missing versatile defender Cameron Dummigan due to a muscular injury. Michael Duffy, who has netted six goals this season, remains their main threat going forward, while Danny Mullen should keep his place up front after scoring five times so far in 2025.
Tactical Review
Shelbourne have leaned heavily on their organised back three and aggressive wing-play. Duff’s men are disciplined defensively and look to create overloads on the flanks, with Wilson and Wood frequently involved in attacks.
Derry operate in a fluid 3-5-2 system, relying on Winchester and O’Reilly to control the midfield tempo. Their wide midfielders stretch play but have been vulnerable to counters in recent games—an area Shelbourne will look to exploit.
How to Watch
The League of Ireland Premier Division fixture will be streamed live via LOITV.ie, with kickoff set for 7:45 PM IST (7:45 PM WAT) on Friday, June 20.
Predictions
Softfootball Prediction: Shelbourne 2-0 Derry City
Shelbourne’s solid home form and Derry’s recent struggles point to a narrow but confident win for the hosts. Expect Duff’s side to control the tempo and take their chances against a Derry team low on rhythm.