Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Irish Premier Division match.
Galway United are three points behind Shelbourne, and missed a chance to draw level in their latest match. This fixture offers a direct opportunity to close the gap.
Galway United
On Monday, Galway United travelled to face second-from-bottom Sligo Rovers, aiming to take advantage of the matchup. Confidence was high heading into the game, but the team suffered a 2:1 defeat. Over their last five league games, Galway United have picked up two wins — both at home.
Shelbourne
Shelbourne currently hold a three-point edge over Galway United, though they’ve played two more games due to rescheduled fixtures originally planned for July. Since mid-June, the title holders have been playing twice a week, and the demanding calendar has clearly taken its toll. They’ve managed just one win in their last four matches — a narrow 1:0 against St Patrick's Athletic — while also dropping points in a 1:1 draw with bottom-of-the-standings Cork City on 30 May, a result that exposed some weaknesses.
Galway United vs Shelbourne Prediction
Does Galway United’s home form suggest they can take all three points on Friday? Only one of their recent home wins came against a strong opponent — a 3:1 victory over St Patrick's Athletic — but that might be enough to give them a slight edge. Notably, Galway United have beaten Shelbourne twice in three home meetings since the start of 2024. A zero handicap looks like the most sensible option here.
