Shelbourne’s faltering pursuit of its first Premier Division title since 2006 could come to a halt against the reigning champions, Shamrock Rovers, at the Tallaght Stadium this Sunday, a match to be broadcast live on RTÉ2.
In an effort to keep morale high and the team on track, Manager Damien Duff and his deputy, Joey O’Brien, have resorted to various strategies, such as screening episodes from the hit comedy show “Only Fools and Horses.” Yet, regardless of the outcome, Shelbourne’s final point tally from 36 games this season will set a new low record. Their highest possible score is 66 points. A stark contrast against Shamrock Rovers, who took criticism for achieving last year’s quadruple with a score of 72 points.
It’s been an unpredictable season, with erratic displays from Shels and Derry City, who trail by four points, allowing the possibility for Shamrock Rovers, Galway United, St Patrick’s Athletic, or Sligo Rovers to swoop in and seize the championship. Rovers remains five points short of Shels, who found a flicker of their former prowess at a game in Tolka Park on Monday night, only for it to be extinguished in a 3-2 defeat against St Pat’s.
The game showed glimmers of hope, such as Rayhaan Tulloch’s impressive goal being surpassed by Matty Smith’s levelling the score with only 10 minutes left on the clock. The moment seemed to present an opportunity for Duff and Shelbourne to go on the defensive, secure a crucial point, and prepare for their impending clash with the reigning champions at Tallaght. However, a spirited performance from St Pat’s under Stephen Kenny saw Zach Elbouzedi break from the right and set up Mason Melia for a critical goal, finished by Al-Amin Kazeem.
A candid Duff later admitted their three conceded goals were unacceptable and could cost them the title if such performances persist. He asserted, “It’s tough to accept, particularly with only one win in nine, but I never give up. It’s still within our grasp with two games at home and two away.”
Smith’s red card, which resulted in a three-match suspension, further amplified the damage. His actions towards Aaron Bolger saw him sent off the field. The situation is worsened with Paddy Barrett being benched for collecting too many yellow cards, and their finest players, Gavin Molly and Will Jarvis, departing for Aberdeen and Hull City midseason. Under these circumstances, Shels needs short of a miracle to recover in their remaining four matches.
Rovers, meanwhile, might be fatigued after their thrilling 1-1 draw with Apoel Nicosia. The tying goal was scored by Dylan Watts in the final minutes of injury time. As the winter nights approach, it suggests that the team is hitting its stride for the European matches.
Manager of Rovers, Stephen Bradley, has been suspended from the next game due to his derogatory comments about an official. However, Bradley remains hopeful. He said, “The final round is always the toughest based on our experience, but we’re not out yet.”
It seems that the RTÈ crew chose the perfect time to turn up with their cameras.