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LOI All You Need to Know: Dundalk look to seal title

The Lillies came complete part two of their domestic treble attempt later
The Lillies came complete part two of their domestic treble attempt later

Dundalk v Shamrock Rovers, Oriel Park, 7:20pm - Live on RTÉ 2 and the RTÉ Player

At this stage, it's a matter of when and not if Dundalk are going to claim this season's SSE Airtricity League Premier Division title. How much sweeter would it be to do it against the side that are currently second in the table?

It's easy to forget that Shamrock Rovers moved ten points clear of the Lilywhites back in April after they beat Cork City, and Vinny Perth's side lost to St Patrick's Athletic.

It was the first of two consecutive defeats for Dundalk, who would go on to lose to Sligo Rovers at the Showgrounds the following week.

But from there, they won five on the spin, and 14 of their next 15. They were top of the table by May, and they haven't looked back since.

Dundalk celebrating their title win last season

A draw tonight would leave them 12 points clear with four games to play, and with a far superior goal difference than Rovers, but they'll want to claim the title in style with a victory.

And their form against the Hoops suggests that they will, having picked up seven points from the three clashes between the clubs, so far, this season.

Stephen Bradley would dearly love to spoil the party at Oriel Park. That said, their Extra.ie FAI Cup semi-final against Bohemians will be playing on his mind, presenting, as it does, their only realistic hope of silverware this season.

Team news

Dundalk: John Mountney is out once again with a foot injury and the match will come too soon for Jordan Flores as he works his way back to fitness. Daniel Kelly, Dane Massey and Sean Murray are all struggling with different problems while Aaron McCarey missed training today due to a bout of flu. Brian Gartland should return to the squad this week and Patrick McEleney is also expected to be fit.

Shamrock Rovers: Not issued 

What they say

Daniel Kelly (Dundalk winger): "Rovers are a very good side and have been right up there for the whole season. They have pushed us and will be looking to beat us at Oriel.

"We have had close games against them all year and we have had the better of it but they were narrow wins. They are in great form, I know they drew on Friday but they have been winning mostly.

"Dundalk-Rovers are always big games, big occasions and tomorrow will be no different but we are confident and hopefully we can get the win to seal the league."

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