Danny Rogers admires the composure exhibited by his top-favoured goalies in major leagues. Now at 30, the keeper for St Patrick’s Athletic, he concedes that keeping your cool while in the goal isn’t a bad thing. He’s hopeful to maintain his streak of three clean slates from his last four matches in tonight’s game when they host Shamrock Rovers at Richmond Park.
Despite an initial sluggish kick-off, Stephen Bradley’s champions seem to have regained their momentum with a recent hat-trick of victories. On the other hand, St Patrick’s managed to realign their season with a convincing 3-0 victory over Sligo Rovers last Monday.
Talking about his admiration for greats like Gianluigi Buffon, Rogers said, “I felt a connection with how Buffon played. It was always so calm and collected.” He compared his own playing style with relaxed keepers like Buffon, Alisson and the rising Caoimhin Kelleher, while adding, “I am not as easy-going as them. You should have a bit of edginess. It helps you play better; nerves mean you care.”
Before the game, he often enquires his teammates about their anxiety levels. If they aren’t nervous, he advises them they should be as it signifies it matters to them and they need to perform to clinch the victory.
According to him, a shade of anxiety should always precede each game. Rogers, the Dublin-born goalie, anticipates a more active role against the reigning champions in tonight’s game. On Shamrock Rovers’ recent return to form, he says, “They have a talented squad with some exceptional players. They weren’t performing their best but they’ve found their rhythm now”. Anticipating heavy action against their frontmen, he aims to make a few crucial saves to help secure another victory for his side.
Returning to Inchicore for the first time since clinching their fourth consecutive title with a 2-0 victory last October, Rovers are bracing themselves for a challenging away game against Pat’s in Dublin. Rovers manager Bradley acknowledges its difficulty, especially with the absence of injured players Jack Byrne, Rory Gaffney, Lee Grace, Aaron McEneff, and Johnny Kenny. Nevertheless, he is confident of a win, provided they approach it with the right mentality and attitude.
Meanwhile, Shelbourne, who are visiting Drogheda United, welcome their Captain Mark Coyle back from suspension. Despite dealing with a virus outbreak, the team has managed to extend their lead to eight points at the top of the table following Monday’s goalless home tie with Derry City. Manager Damien Duff notes, acknowledging a lingering virus among some players. “There are players who got it on their rest days and recovered fine. However, some missed yesterday’s training. It’s a short-lived thing, so we will be better informed about our condition closer to the kick-off. Apart from the virus, there are no injury concerns,” he elaborated.
Listed below are Friday’s fixtures (7.45 unless mentioned)
Premier Division
Bohemians versus Waterford
Derry City against Dundalk
Drogheda United competing with Shelbourne
St Patrick’s Athletic taking on Shamrock Rovers
First Division
Finn Harps playing UCD (5.0)
Bray Wanderers against Athlone Town
Cork City versus Cobh Ramblers
Kerry FC playing Longford Town
Wexford competing against Treaty United.