Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the League of Ireland Premier Division match.
St. Patrick's Athletic
St. Patrick's Athletic currently hold the advantage in the race for European qualification, sitting fourth in the standings. They trail third place by just a single point and could even rise to second depending on other results—Drogheda United face league leaders Shamrock Rovers, while Bohemians are not in action. Still, three points are far from a foregone conclusion. St. Patrick's Athletic have claimed five wins and five draws from 10 home fixtures, underlining a pattern of inconsistency on their own turf.
Shelbourne
Shelbourne are winless in their last six away games, drawing four and losing two. The squad have only managed to defeat Waterford FC, currently eighth, and bottom-placed Sligo Rovers—those victories came back in February and March. Against any side currently in the top six, Shelbourne have failed to record an away win. Their latest outing on the road ended in a 1:1 draw against ninth-placed Cork City.
St. Patrick's Athletic vs Shelbourne Prediction
Last Friday, Shelbourne were completely ineffective at home against Shamrock Rovers, suffering a 1:2 defeat without registering a shot on target—their only goal came via an own goal from the visitors. Given this form, it's hard to imagine them taking anything from this contest. However, considering St. Patrick's Athletic have drawn five times at home, a level handicap appears to be the safest option.
