Breaking News: Drogheda United Holds Onto League of Ireland Summit Despite Goalless Draw with St Patrick’s Athletic; Record Crowd Witnesses Intense Easter Monday Showdown
Breaking: Drogheda United Hold onto Top Spot in League of Ireland with Easter Monday Standoff
Drogheda United fans are buzzing as their team maintained their surprise stay at the top of the League of Ireland Premier Division. A scoreless draw against St. Patrick’s Athletic on Easter Monday at Sullivan & Lambe Park was enough to keep United at the summit, despite only securing two points from two games.
Easter Crowd Breaks Records for Old Venue
The clash drew in a whopping 2,546 fans, the biggest crowd to watch a match at the old venue in years. This lively crowd even outnumbered those who attended the FAI Cup semi-final against Wexford last year. Among the throng was Republic of Ireland boss Heimir Hallgrimsson, making his debut at the Windmill Road venue.
United Dominant in First Half
Drogheda dominated the early stages, with Thomas Oluwa and Warren Davis causing havoc for the Saints’ defense. United’s more ambitious display, compared to their previous game against Shelbourne, saw them constantly press forward. Owen Lambe and Shane Farrell tested the Pat’s goalkeeper, while Joe Redmond missed a clear chance for the visitors.
Pat’s Struggle with Intensity
St. Patrick’s Athletic struggled to match Drogheda’s intensity and physicality. Three changes in their defense didn’t help, with Ryan McLaughlin having a particularly tough time against Davis. Despite the home side’s dominance, neither team could find the back of the net.
Penalty Claim Frustrates Drogs
Warren Davis had a goal-scoring streak snapped at four games, with Patrick’s Athletic’s defense keeping him at bay. A late effort from substitute Barry Baggley was well saved by Drogs’ goalkeeper Luke Dennison. A penalty appeal was waved away after Davis was touched in the area, leaving Drogheda fans frustrated but proud of their team’s performance.
Lineups
Drogheda United: Luke Dennison; Andrew Quinn, Conor Keeley, James Bolger; Owen Lambe (Elicha Ahui, 87), Ryan Brennan (Luke Heeney, 64), Shane Farrell, Conor Kane; Darragh Markey; Warren Davis, Thomas Oluwa.
St. Patrick’s Athletic: Joseph Anang; Ryan McLaughlin, Joe Redmond, Tom Grivosti, Al-Amin Kazeem (Jake Mulraney, 70); Chris Forrester (Barry Baggley, 70), Jamie Lennon, Brandon Kavanagh (Kian Leavy, 63); Zack Elbouzedi (Conor Carty, 80), Mason Melia, Jason McClelland.
Referee: Kevin O’Sullivan
Did You Know?
This is the third consecutive scoreless draw between these two sides at Sullivan & Lambe Park.
Pro Tip
Keep an eye on young guns Thomas Oluwa and Warren Davis. Their form could be a game-changer for Drogheda United this season.
FAQ
Q: Why is Drogheda United’s stay at the top of the Premier Division a surprise?
A: United finished 7th last season and were not expected to challenge at the top this early in the campaign.
Call-to-Action
Check back with 247Sports for more updates on Drogheda United’s journey at the top of the League of Ireland Premier Division. Share your thoughts on their surprise stint and the Easter Monday clash in the comments below.