- Shelbourne are unbeaten in their last 3 away games in the Premier Division, winning 1 and drawing 2.
- Galway United have won 5, drawn 1 and lost 4 of their 10 home league games, averaging 1.40 goals per game scored and 1.20 goals per match conceded.
Tight game expected in Eamonn Deacy Park
Two in-form sides meet on Friday evening in what should be a closely-fought Premier Division 2025 game. Shelbourne FC are 5th in the 2025 table with 31 points from 23 games while Galway United are 7th with 28 points from 21.
The Tribesmen have won two and drawn two of their last five league games but lost 2-1 to Sligo Rovers away just one day ago. Shelbourne FC have been more erratic, losing two, drawing two and winning one of their previous five fixtures. Galway United’s last victory was their most impressive of the season when they beat St. Patrick’s Athletic 3-1 at home.
Paul Doolin’s side are disciplined, pragmatic and favour tight games when their organisation and efficiency in set-pieces makes them a match for anyone. Shelbourne FC, on the other hand, are more fluid and attack-minded, pressing opponents high up the field and moving the ball quickly when they have possession.
Damien Duff’s resignation as Shelbourne FC boss could affect Shelbourne FC's style of play for this game as the Irish international was a major advocate of attacking football. Caretaker boss Joey O’Brien may not have time to impose his own style on the team for this clash and that could play into Galway United’s hands.
Shelbourne have the edge in the draw column
The bookmakers have Galway as 2.75 favorites for this one, which is a little tight considering Shelbourne have won three of their 11 away Premier League matches, drawing six and losing just twice. The visitors have conceded only 1.09 goals a game on their travels so they can certainly hold their own against a Galway side that have scored 1.40 per game at home.
The value therefore lies in the double chance market with Shelbourne at 2.91 and the draw at 3.02. A draw wouldn’t be a disaster for either team, which should also be considered when making a bet.
Galway have won back-to-back home games, which is why they are the bookmakers’ favorites, but Shelbourne are the better team overall and have the better away record. We’re backing a 1-1 draw as a slight home advantage could be enough for Galway to nick it, although the visitors have drawn six of their 11 road games.
Shelbourne top scorer Odubeko not on form
Galway’s top goal threat is Moses Dyer with 10 in 20 league appearances this season while Shelbourne’s top scorer is Ademipo Odubeko, who has managed only four goals in 22 Premier starts.
But Alistair Coote has been in good form for Shelbourne recently, having scored two of their four league goals in their past five matches.
