In the League of Ireland Premier, Shelbourne and Derry City face off in a crucial encounter at Tolka Park on Monday night.
With significant implications for the title race, this match promises to be a thrilling contest between two top teams.
Team Form
Shelbourne
Shelbourne enters this match following a challenging period in European competition.
After a disappointing exit from the Conference League, they are eager to shift focus back to domestic success.
Despite their recent struggles in Europe, Shelbourne has been solid in the League of Ireland, holding a three-point lead over their closest rivals with a game in hand. Their recent form includes:
League of Ireland Premier Form: WLWWWD
All Competitions Form: DWDWLD
Derry City
Derry City, on the other hand, has had a mixed run. Their recent exit from the Conference League at the hands of Bruno's Magpies was a blow, but they bounced back with a commanding win in the FAI Cup.
Currently sitting three points behind Shelbourne, Derry City will aim to close the gap and keep their title hopes alive. Their recent form includes:
League of Ireland Premier Form: DWWWWL
All Competitions Form: WWLLWW
Team News
Shelbourne
Shelbourne will be without Patrick Barrett, who is suspended following a red card in their last league match.
Additionally, Tyreke Wilson is also unavailable due to suspension, leaving the team with limited options at left-back.
Probable Starting Lineup: Kearns; Griffin, Lewidge, Gannon, Bone; Caffrey, Lunney, Coyle; Smith, Jarvis, Martin
Derry City
Derry City is dealing with several injuries. Jordan McEneff remains sidelined with a foot injury, and veteran midfielder Patrick McEleney is recovering from a broken hand.
Probable Starting Lineup: Maher; Dummigan, Connolly, Coll, Doherty; O'Reilly, Patching, Kelly, McMullan, Duffy; Hoban
Prediction
This clash is expected to be tightly contested, with both teams having strong motivations to secure a win.
Shelbourne, despite their European setbacks, have been consistent in the domestic league and hold a slight advantage due to their position at the top.
However, Derry City's resilience and recent domestic form suggest they won't be easy opponents.
Our Prediction: Shelbourne 1-1 Derry City
Shelbourne 
Derry City 
