LATEST
NEWS FROM ORIEL
Main Page
|| Features || History|| Fixtures || Pre Season || Squad || Links || Dundalk Talk
LATEST
NEWS FROM ORIEL
7th April
After the rather surreal feeling of pre-season taking place in Spring, Dundalk finally get the chance to put last season's ghosts to rest when the new campaign starts this coming Thursday at Oriel Park versus Finn Harps. Trevor Anderson's new look side will be aiming to impress the Oriel Park regulars, with a mixture of young and old players offering the Belfastman the chance to silence the critics who doubted his appointment.
In goals, new signing Anthony Fennelly is currently injured, so Bellurgan's Neil Gallagher has been given the opportunity to stake his claim. Fullbacks David Nicholl and Baba Isaaka spent the end of last season at Kilkenny City, with the latter, a Ugandan, on the books of St Patrick's Athletic. Scot Stuart McLean will be competing with Alan McCartney, Paul Curran and loan signing from St Pat's. Sean Kelly, for the centre half positions. Sean Watters is also on the fringes of the side in the defensive positions.
In midfield, the experienced Gary Sliney and Paul Byrne will definitely add physical strength to the department. Ciaran Kavanagh will be hoping to regain his place in the side while David Ward will more than likely continue on the left side. The late signing of old favourite Shane Reddish, as predicted on Oriel Web immediately upon the arrival of Anderson, will add an extra option in that department.
Remembered as a right full back by the Oriel faithful, the Englishman has converted to a midfield role while playing in the North, and it will be interesting to see how Anderson integrates him into the side. The popular character will also play a part on the coaching side of things.
In the striking department, a number of familiar faces look set to compete for places. Gary Haylock has returned from his Ards sojourn and will renew association with Cormac Malone, one of the few senior players from last season to be kept on. Dessie Gorman really needs no introduction, but at 38 it is hard to envisage anything other than a peripheral role for the "Dundalk Hawk". Brendan Markey, who was on loan at Dundalk in the 90's, could also be on his way back to the club while Floyd Gilmour, two goal hero against St Patricks'Athletic, is another prospective addition the squad.
Youngsters Andrew Duffy, Simon Kelly and Eamonn Mulvenna in addition to others from the youth squads will be waiting in the wings, hoping to play their part in what promises to be an interesting season. Many pundits have tipped Dundalk for a disappointing season, obviously believing that the form of the initial stages of the Anderson era represents the level of ability of the side.
In truth, this is a totally different team, and certainly an unknown quantity. Hastily, far too hastily in fact, some criticised Anderson and even suggested his head was on the block as the poor results stacked up towards the end of the last campaign. Through it all, Anderson outlined his disgust with the players at his disposal, and asked for the chance to bring his own players in and mould his own side. Judgment of his ability can start now.
Finn Harps on Thursday provides about as tough a test as Dundalk will face all season. A good crowd should turn out, and a good result is needed to build up momentum and capitalise on the superb support enjoyed by the club last season. In these experimental times of summer soccer Dundalk, as well as the eircom league, enter new ground with renewed hope. Here we go again…
14th March
The Anderson regime is finally beginning to develop a persona of it's own at Oriel Park, as a number of new arrivals begin a career at the club, while other old favourites depart the scene. In the past week, the Belfastman completed the signings of experienced midfielders Paul Byrne and Gary Sliney.
Byrne is a familiar figure, 31 years old, who lined out against Dundalk in the FAI Cup Final last April. He is best remembered for a sweet volley against Rangers in an Old Firm clash [unlike some of the bigots who have a vendetta against Anderson, Byrne obviously doesn't bear the same sectarian grudge].
However, that highlight aside, Byrne's career has been characterized by some dubious transfer decisions and a sense of unfulfilled potential. On his day Byrne is brilliant, a talented set piece specialist with a good passing ability and the capability to produce goals a cut above eircom league Premier Division standard, let alone Division One. However, allegations of unprofessionalism and a poor attitude also follow him, and with Anderson regarded as a disciplinarian, it will be interesting to see how he handles Byrne.
Sliney, however, appears to have been around for ages yet is only 28 years of age. He played under Anderson at Newry and Ards and is a combative midfielder regarded as somewhat of a short fuse and extremely competitive. The Dubliner spent last season with Dublin City and failed to set the world alight, but, with a new challenge, he will look to form a midfield partnership with either Ciaran Kavanagh or Chris Lawless that can propel the Lilywhites to the Premier Division.
Despite reservations about the fitness of both players, Anderson has expressed himself delighted to have secured their signatures. Dessie Gorman has been training with the club. The 38 year old asked Anderson to give him a chance in pre season, and his former boss at Linfield granted him permission.
Bellurgan goalkeeper Neil Gallagher, who has been involved with Ireland under 19's recently, has also been training at Oriel along with local lads Raymond Trimble and Ciaran Dunne, who made several appearances in the 1998/99 season. Waterford United goalkeeper Anthony Fennelly has also been linked with the club, while persistent whispers continue about the likelihood of Shane Reddish and Raymond Campbell returning to Oriel Park. Berwick Rangers goalkeeper Neil Inglis is under contract, and cannot move until the summer.
Donal Broughan's departure has been confirmed, with the Dubliner joining up and coming Kildare County who are making quite an impression in the transfer market. Broughan came to the club when his career was on the slide back in the year 2000, but he revitalized himself under Martin Murray to become an integral member of the side and leading figure in the successful FAI Cup winning run.
His final season at Oriel was interrupted by injury, although the enduring memory will be his stunning goal against Finn Harps that should have won TV3's goal of the season, only for the competition being judged by an absolute imbecile. He leaves Oriel Park with a significantly higher stock than when he arrived, and certainly silenced those who queried his initial capture.
If financial circumstances were different, he would have stayed at the club, and unlike some other players who left Oriel in slightly controversial and nasty circumstances, Broughan should be welcomed back to the club when Kildare County, under former Dundalk boss Dermot Keely, return to Oriel Park later in the season.
Meanwhile, John Flanagan, who was released by Trevor Anderson, has signed a 2 year deal with hometown club Premier Division side Drogheda United.
4th March
Dundalk have made their first signing of the close season, with
central defender Stuart McLean joining
the club from Scottish side Albion Rovers. McLean scored on his final appearance
for Albion in the Scottish Third Division on Saturday, and now joins Dundalk
in time to link up with Anderson, who he played under at Newry Town, in time
for pre-season training.
The strong centre half was highly rated amongst Newry supporters in his time
at the club, and as such,
his capture represents something of a coup. With the new season starting
against Finn Harps midway through April, Anderson will be looking to significantly
add to the squad in the coming weeks.
Players linked with the club include former Celtic and Bohs midfielder
Paul Byrne, Finn Harps' John
Kenny, Dublin City's Gary Sliney and Shelbourne midfielder cum striker Tony
Sheridan who all share the common bond of having captured Anderson's attention
while playing in the North. The Belfastman spent time in Scotland looking at
McLean, and one or two other potential signings, with pre season training set
to start on Thursday 6th March.
16th February
Only three of Dundalk's heroic 2002 FAI Cup winning team will start next season at Oriel Park. Ciaran Kavanagh looks set to remain at the club, with his passionate end of season interview with the Dundalk Democrat likely to have helped his cause. With Gary Haylock due to return from Ards and Cormac Malone also staying they are the only three members of the Cup winning panel of sixteen that will definitely start next season at the club.
With John Whyte retiring, Donal Broughan in limbo and Chris Lawless still deciding between Shelbourne, the USA and a new contract offer Trevor Anderson will need a number of players to fill the gaping holes in the squad. Another established player definitely staying is David Ward, who missed the Cup Final, confirming he will be staying after winning the Supporters Club and Travel Club Player Of The Year awards. Olan Flanagan took the Under 21 Player Of The Year Award.
Rumours persist that financial problems are plaguing the club with sponsorship reportedly a problem - the decision to go with Dundalk Cabs may well have severe consequences long term
February 2nd
Dundalk's longest serving player, Knockbridge lad David Hoey, has left the club to join Ollie Ralph's new era at Newry Town. Hoey did not figure prominently enough in the plans of Trevor Anderson to warrant staying at the club, and has instead opted to team up with former mentor Ralph and former Lilywhites Bryan McCrystal, Martin Reilly and also Robbie Brunton at the Showgrounds.
After an unsuccessful spell at Oriel after a bright start, left back Brunton completed his move before the transfer deadline, with Anderson again making it clear that the Dubliner did not figure in his plans.
Hoey's move will have significantly more impact, however, with the loyal servant to the club extremely popular amongst supporters. After promising plenty when breaking into the side under Eddie May, Hoey was struck down by illness that seriously stunted his progress. His dedication to his training regime in returning from injury eventually restored him to the side, although one feels that he never truly reached the heights he was destined for in his early days. He stayed loyal to the club after relegation, despite advances from Drogheda and Waterford, but his struggle to find a regular position under successive managers generally leads to him being taken for granted as a squad member. He may benefit from the change in club.
Brunton and Hoey join Martin Reilly, Bryan McCrystal, John Connolly, and out on loan Gary Haylock in the post season exodus. Latest rumours suggest that John Flanagan is next on the way out, while other players have been alarmed by the substantial drop in wages offered in their new contract. As yet, there is no news on players coming into the club, although it is quite likely that they too could be playing their football in the Irish League at the moment, and may well arrive as close as possible to the new season.
Interesting times lie ahead….with an ex-Derry player and a current Finn Harps player linked with moves to the club.
Dundalk finished the season in ninth position last weekend, after a 2-2 draw away to Kilkenny City last weekend at Buckley Park. Showing commendable courage, Dundalk battled back from two goals down, with Paul Byrne and Aidan O'Keefe putting the hosts in front inside the first hour.
However, a Cormac Malone strike on 67 minutes reduced the deficit, with David Ward firing home from close range eight minutes later after a corner from debutant Simon Kelly to earn a point for Dundalk. In a frenetic finish, Kilkenny defender David Nicholl was lucky to stay on the field after a reckless challenge on Andrew Duffy that incensed Dundalk players and supporters. Displaying the renowned intelligence of eircom League officals, referee Paul Duddy gave David Nicholl a second yellow card, and then a red - before remembering he hadn't booked him in the first place. Nicholl stayed on - everyone was confused.
With Athlone and Limerick losing, Dundalk managed to finish the season in ninth position - actually improving their position on the last day. A minor cause for cheer - saving the club from the ignominy of re-election. Still, it fails to remove the memory of one of the worst seasons in the club history. The clear out has started, with a new era in the future of Dundalk Football Club starting with a series of young players coming through likely to be gelled with Anderson's signings.
While the play-offs, so long a target for the club, continue to their conclusion, minds at Oriel Park are already looking ahead to next season.
January 25th
With transfer rumours dominating conversation, Dundalk's end of season games are becoming a mere sideshow - and the same disinterest will make Sunday's game with Kilkenny City nothing more than a mere formality. Whose coming and whose going is all that really matters at the moment, and the only significance of Sunday's game could well be the fact that it marks the end of several careers at Oriel Park for a number of players. Martin Reilly has already started the exodus, joining Ollie Ralph at Newry Town. His departure was entirely predictable after a stop-start season, although it's hard not to feel sorry for a player who does not deserve to leave in such an anonymous and timid manner.
Reilly was a colossus in his first season at the club in 2000/1, scoring the goals that carried Dundalk to promotion. Last season in the Premier Division didn't go as well as expected for the Dubliner, but he still played a key role in the FAI Cup run with his third goal against Shamrock Rovers likely to live long in the memory. His relationship with Martin Murray took him to the club in the first place, and it hardly comes as a surprise that the departure of Murray has quickly been followed by Reilly heading for the exit door.
Another player possibly on his way to Newry is David Hoey. His departure would be somewhat surprising, considering he is the longest serving player at the club and is almost like a piece of furniture around Oriel at this stage. His struggle to find a regular position has seriously hindered his progress, and there is a school of thought which believes that the player probably needs a new club to kickstart his career again. He is another FAI Cup hero though, and his loyalty to the club is unquestionable - his loyalty to Ralph is the only thing likely to prise him away.
David Ward, hair and all, now looks set to stay at the club. Several rumours suggested that Ward could also be on his way to Newry - but it now appears as though the talented winger/striker will follow the path taken by Chris Lawless by accepting the new contracts offered to them.
At this stage, new younger players aside, it appears as though Anderson has only offered contracts to Haylock, Ward and Lawless. Cormac Malone will in all probability stay at the club, but beyond that the futures of Ciaran Kavanagh, Mick Dempsey, Donal Broughan, John Flanagan, the luckless John Whyte and Robbie Brunton appear to be in doubt.
Some of these players may well be looking to earn a contract with their performance in Buckley Park this Sunday, but beyond that the game appears to be a mere irrelevancy as supporters prepare for pre-season upheaval down Carrick Road.
Dundalk ended their six match losing streak on Tuesday evening, with a 1-1 draw away to Monaghan United at Century Homes Park. It says a lot about the club's current plight that avoiding defeat feels like some form of achievement, and also reduces the possibility of the ignominous prospect of facing re-election. At a venue where many miserable days have been endured in the past, Monaghan opened the scoring after eight minutes courtesy of a strike from the enigmatic Darren McKenna. However, Dundalk equalised thirteen minutes later when Anthony Shevlin handballed in the penalty area - Robbie Brunton converted from the spot to score his first goal for the club. Yet, in a game that Dundalk just shaded, Brunton turned from hero to villain in time added on as a petty second bookable offence led to his dismissal. He wasn't the only one to see red, however, as Monaghan's Declan McDonnell and Paul Shiels were both sent off in the course of the final fifteen minutes.
January 19th
Dundalk restored some pride with a credible performance against Waterford United at Oriel Park last Thursday, but it wasn't enough to prevent a sixth consecutive defeat against the newly crowned League champions.
Waterford considered themselves lucky to come away with a victory, but they will play Premier Division football next season while pre season favourites Dundalk look to rebuild their squad. On that note, John Connolly and Bryan McCrystal have both left the club, joining Crusaders and Newry Town respectively. Chris Lawless, however, looks set to remain at the club.
With Gary Haylock gone to Ards [making a scoring debut at weekend] and Martin Reilly injured, Dundalk fielded David Ward and Cormac Malone up front, with Chris Lawless on the left - it was Bucky who came closest with two fine first half efforts. Waterford broke the deadlock with ten minutes remaining when Daryl Murphy aided by a strong wind, profiting on a long kickout and lobbing the ball over the advancing Mick Dempsey. Painful as it is to see someone else win promotion, Waterford's ascension gives hope to Dundalk as they hope to develop youth talent. Waterford have a core of talented local players in their squad, including Murphy, and as Dundalk seek to find the correct blend between youth and experience next season, the example of Waterford is a good one to follow.
This week, Dundalk finish their campaign with games against Monaghan in Century Homes Park on Tuesday night, and Kilkenny in Buckley Park on Saturday evening. Dundalk will be hoping to save face by avoiding re-election, and with both Monaghan and Kilkenny playing for no more than pride, surely the young hopefuls can spring some sort of positive result. The likes of Drew Duffy and Simon Kelly will be hoping for a prominent role in the games, as Trevor Anderson assesses his options for next season.
The departures of Connolly and McCrystal permanently have started the expected exodus. McCrystal, after a disappointing spell at Newry, joins Newry Town where Ollie Ralph is manager [incidentally, his Premier Division side drew 1-1 with non league opposition at the weekend in the Irish Cup]. McCrystal's spell at Oriel was blighted by injury, and most significantly, loss of confidence, with the Bellurgan lad crucified by certain elements of the support after a succession of errors. While his overall displays were not ultimately convincing enough to please Trevor Anderson, players returning home from England are always the target of a particular kind of people. Unfortunate.
After initially signing on a month long contract, John Connolly had an excellent three year at the club, and has an FAI Cup winners medal to show for it. His departure marks a sign of the times, with the player simply unable to cope with the demands of all training taking place in Dundalk. Trevor Anderson's insistence that the club train as one is thoroughly commendable, but it is honest experienced Dublins pros like Connolly that will just have to lose out. His move to Crusaders allows him to train in Dublin, and Oriel Web wishes the player the very best of luck in the future.
His commanding display in the Cup Final will forever be etched in Dundalk folklore, as will a fine display against Finn Harps in Ballybofey at the Quarter Final stage. Thanks for the memories, John.
While he may not always have convinced everyone, he still managed to wrestle the first team spot from a succession of players signed with the intention of taking his place - seeing off challenges from the likes of Brendan Murphy, Justin O'Neill, Brian McKenna and it also could be argued, Mick Dempsey. Ultimately, Murray's moronic summer signing of Dempsey has harmed both keepers. On a high after the Cup Final, there was no need to publicly undermine Connolly by signing a player who wouldn't have came without the promise of first team football. A shameful waste of money, with no disrespect intended to Dempsey.
Football clubs must go on, and with Trevor Anderson building for the future, it is believed that Chris Lawless has accepted his offer of a new contract. The club are still waiting on David Ward to make up his mind, while beyond that, several of the current first team squad such as David Hoey and Ciaran Kavanagh are waiting in limbo to see what will become of them once the season ends.
January 12th
Dundalk's Division One clash with Monaghan United scheduled for today [Sunday] was postponed due to a frozen pitch at Gortakeegan. No rescheduled date has been fixed as yet, although Dundalk fans will probably be hoping the game is played sooner rather than later. On the playing front, the move of Martin Reilly to Glenavon appears set to take place sooner rather than later, while Bryan McCrystal and John Connolly have reportedly agreed moves to Newry Town and Crusaders respectively. It remains unclear if these moves are immediate, or will take place at the end of the season, but with Gary Haylock already gone it appears as though the likes of Sean Watters, Andrew Duffy and possibly Simon Kelly and Eamonn Mulvenna will play a part in the end of season matches, including this Thursday's visit of Waterford United.
Meanwhile, Ciaran Kavanagh has admitted in the Dundalk Democrat that he does not deserve a new contract on the basis of his performances this season while the rest of the current squad is to blame for the club's problems, and should question if they are good enough for Dundalk.
Gary Haylock has admitted that the club were lucky to win several games earlier in the season under Martin Murray and Ollie Ralph, citing fortunate wins away to Limerick, Sligo and Kildare.
The paper also reports that David Ward and Chris Lawless have turned down new two year deals, which throws their future into doubt, despite the fact they are the only established members of the first team squad apart from Haylock, to be offered a contract for next season to date.
January 3rd
On the day that Dundalk sunk to tenth position in the eircom League First Division, Gary Haylock completed a three month loan to Ards which effectively ensures he will be back at Dundalk for the 2003 campaign. After a difficult campaign, Haylock's decision to commit his future to Dundalk appears admirable, although fans will be hoping for a significant improvement in performances.
His move to Ards on a three month deal, ending just as the new First Division season will start for Dundalk, is intended to improve match fitness and hopefully improve confidence. Haylock can't hit a barn door at the moment, but it must be remembered that when he initially joined Dundalk, he looked sharp after a spell banging in the goals for Glentoran. If he can regain his scoring touch with Ards, Dundalk will benefit in March.
Haylock makes his debut for Ards tomorrow, meaning he will miss out on the final three games of the league season. Therefore, those games will no doubt be used to blood some of the younger players in the squad - a badly needed exercise.
Meanwhile, Martin Reilly could be going North permanently, with rumours suggesting a move to Glenavon is on the cards for the off-form Dubliner. Glenavon manager Alan Malone had earlier expressed an interest in Haylock, but a move for Reilly, who fared well in a previous spell with Crusaders could well spell the end of a remarkable three years at the club for the striker.
One player that won't be going anywhere, however, is David Ward. With many expecting an end of season clearout, Anderson has apparently moved to offer the player a new contract. Along with Haylock, he will be one of the few current squad members plying their trade at Oriel next season - given the nature of some comments attributed to Anderson since his arrival.
January 2nd, 2003
HAPPY NEW YEAR - YOU SADO-MASOCHISTS
Dundalk FC treated home supporters with disdain again tonight, after a shocking 4-0 defeat at home to Galway United. Every club that has played Dundalk recently has won easily, with Trevor Anderson's side acting as a pleasant confidence builder for every club in the division. How quaint.
An embarassing time to be a Dundalk fan - even the most fervent of supporters can only feel ashamed after such defeats. Does the same hurt and depth of feeling extend to some of our beloved playing squad?
To provide some kind of distraction from the terminal dross on the pitch, Shane Reddish and Peter Withnell attended the game this evening, with rumours suggesting that Reddish, and possibly Withnell could be returning to the club in the close season. Particularly in the case of Reddish, who applied for the managers job at the club and with a number of coaching badges under his belt, the Englishman is being touted as potential assistant manager/coach as well as a playing addition.
28th December
Dundalk got off to the best start possible away to Finn Harps tonight, but still lost 2-1 to Finn Harps in Ballybofey. Cormac Malone opened the scoring for Dundalk within ten seconds of kick-off, but Kevin McHugh equalised after 18 minutes for Finn Harps. John Connolly made three crucial saves to keep Dundalk level after half-time, but despite an improved performance overall, a 63rd minute goal from defender Shane Bradley gave Finn Harps all three points.
They continue their push for promotion, while all Dundalk have to play for now is pride.
This Thursday, Galway United visit Oriel Park for a First Division clash which is only really important for the visitors. Despite having a significantly smaller wage bill and having a squad nowhere near as celebrated as Dundalk, Galway are strongly pushing for a playoff place. Unfortunately, a poor home crowd is expected as Dundalk fans already begin the countdown to the new season.
28th December
Dundalk travel to second placed Finn Harps tonight, with travelling fans expecting little from the game on the basis of recent performances. The previous clash between the sides resulted in a 3-1 victory for Dundalk, but since then the fortunes of the two sides have varied greatly with Trevor Anderson's side suffering a dramatic loss of form. For young players such as Watters, McCartney and Duffy the trip to Finn Park will be a learning experience, but aside from that, there appears to be little to gain from the experience. Maybe there'll be a belated Christmas surprise for long suffering Dundalk fans...
21st December
Dundalk capitulated to yet another spiritless, lifeless and gutless victory on Thursday, when the highest paid squad in the First Division strolled around the pitch, fulfilled the bare minimum of requirements and effortlessly picked up another defeat for their troubles. With manager Trevor Anderson admitting he can't get the best out of this bunch of players, and already looking to blood the young players such as McCartney, Watters and Duffy who should NOT be blamed for current form, questions must be asked of the established players who insult paying punters with their blatantly disinterested displays.
Performance related pay, anyone?
16th December
Dundalk face this Thursday's match with Kildare badly in need of a win, with Trevor Anderson looking for his first home win as Dundalk manager. After a calamitous defeat in Athlone, the squad badly need a confidence boosting win to ensure that interest remains until the end of the season, with the club no doubt needing the revenue from home games against the likes of Waterford United and Galway United.
Meanwhile, Oriel Web has learned that the whole first team squad was fined after breaking curfew on the recent away trip to Cobh. While two players, believed to be Paul Curran and Andrew Duffy, only received a 20 euro fine for being 20 minutes late, the rest of the squad were fined 100 euro each for returning home hours after the designated time. Allegedly, one particularly inebriated member of the squad was looking to fight Trevor Anderson while another angered the new manager with a comment about where the team bus stopped to drop him off on the way home.
Strict disclipinarian Anderson will no doubt keep such incidences in mind when deciding whether to retain players when their contracts expire at the end of the current season.
In another setback for the club, a dispute with defender Ross Darcy is going to cost the club a sum of money after a dispute involving the PFAI. The club were angered by Darcy's signing of a contract when he failed to disclose an injury he was carrying, and subsequently Darcy was not paid for four weeks. Fran Gavin of the PFAI became aware of the situation, and Dundalk lost a case on the matter which will lead to the club having to pay out a sum of money. One can only presume that former Spurs defender Darcy will not be lining out for the Lilywhites again.
Striker Mick O'Byrne seems unlikely to return either, after taking umbrage to a comment about his fitness. After almost 18 months on the sidelines, O'Byrne finally lined out in a recent under 21 game but was told that he would only be considered for first team action after several more games at that level. O'Byrne is believed to have taken issue with the comment, and disappeared since that occasion.
With all this strife going on at the moment, it comes as no surprise to hear whispers that the club are implementing a plan handed to them by Charlton Athletic which would involve restructuring the club from the bottom, and seeking alternative methods to improve finances. Charlton are viewed as a financial success story, and their ideas come highly recommended but in the short term context it is believed that another season in Division One will benefit the process.
Which makes you wonder just how important a result really is against Kildare County this Thursday.
15th December
Dundalk slumped to yet another limp and pathetic defeat on Friday night, when a display of remarkable ineptitude led to a 2-0 defeat against Athlone Town, who themselves were enjoying their first victory since their 4-2 win at Oriel Park. After a poor, if evenly matched first half, a fortuitous strike from Enda Kenny gave Athlone the lead shortly after the break. Robbie Brunton was sent off shortly afterwards, and although Cormac Malone came close with an effort off the crossbar, sub Alan Clarke added a second in the dying seconds to give Athlone a victory they deserved without impressing.
However, the other results this weekend went in Dundalk's favour, and remarkably a win over Kildare County on Thursday night would elevate Trevor Anderson's side to fourth position in the table.
| First Division | |
| Waterford | 35 |
| Finn Harps | 28 |
| Galway | 26 |
| Cobh Ramblers | 23 |
| Kildare County | 23 |
| Monaghan United | 21 |
| Dundalk | 21 |
| Sligo | 19 |
| Limerick | 19 |
| Dublin City | 19 |
A draw between Sligo and Kildare County added to weekend defeats for Cobh and Monaghan mean that the table remains extremely tight, with Sligo, Limerick and also Dublin City now within four points of fourth placed Cobh. In reality, only Athlone and Kilkenny City appear to be out of the running. With Dundalk up first this week at home to Kildare County, a victory could remarkably change the outlook.
Yet, on the basis of recent performances, a victory seems unlikely this Thursday. The return of Craig Dean would doubtless help the side, but aside from him, Dundalk will basically be relying on the same personnel that has been losing regularly in recent weeks. Donal Broughan is being badly missed, but it remains to be seen when he will return to action.
It says a lot about the current predicament that Dundalk aren't fancied to win at their home venue on Thursday night against a club that didn't even exist this time last year.
9th December
Dundalk find themselves in a grim position this week, entering into the final seven games of the Division One season in the bottom half of the league table. A disastrous 3-1 loss to Sligo Rovers on Thursday coupled with weekend wins for Kildare County and Monaghan United have led to Trevor Anderson's side slipping to seventh position, a bridge too far for Anderson, tired of defending experienced players for horrific displays.
Speaking on LMFM after the game, Anderson admitted changes would be made for the next game, with even more young players to get their chance. [Sean Watters marked his Oriel Park debut on Thursday with a 78th minute goal]. Players such as Martin Reilly, Gary Haylock and Ciaran Kavanagh, players you would expect to be the mainstays of the team will not be encouraged by Anderson's assertion that "household names" would be losing out.
Anderson may well reconsider those words when considering the lack of options available to him, as, despite the new breed of youngsters being extremely promising, it is unrealistic to expect all of them to be able to sustain the promotion challenge which Dundalk so dearly need to build. A playoff place is all Dundalk can hope for now, with the original target of aiming for first position replaced by nervous glances at the positioning of the fourth placed side in the table.
Although no-one covered themselves in glory last week, Watters is likely to retain the right back slot, while Curran and McCrystal are likely to remain united at centre half, unless Anderson opts for Alan McCartney instead. Ward has been consistent all season on the left side, while Drew Duffy will probably retain his place as well.
Craig Dean's performances have not been helped by his father being in a serious condition after a car accident, but if he returns in time for the Athlone game he is a certainty to start. If Anderson keeps faith with Duffy, one of Kavanagh or Lawless will go. Kavanagh may well start on Friday, but Lawless is likely to remain at the club longer than him, with the former UCD player possibly facing the axe at the end of the season.
Up front, Haylock and Reilly continue to exasperate, with the Dublin City game keeping them prominent on the scoring charts, but their Oriel Park form being quite shocking. Haylock has performed well away from home, and will probably stay in the side. Reilly is more likely to be dropped - with Cormac Malone set to benefit. Alternatively, Anderson may promote youngster Eamonn Mulvenna or Paudie Hearty to the squad.
If Anderson lives up to his word - and places up for grabs - training in the week leading up to a game could be quite an interesting experience indeed. More to follow as the week progresses...
2nd December
Dundalk missed a chance to considerably close the gap between themselves and Waterford United on Saturday, after a 0-0 draw with Cobh Ramblers. Waterford went down 5-1 to Dublin City on Saturday, but Cobh and Dundalk both looking to close the gap could not break the deadlock, despite the fact they were previously the two highest scoring sides in the division.
Another local lad made his debut, with Sean Watters replacing the injured John Flanagan at right back. Both sides had chances, with Gary Haylock missing Dundalk's two best chances, one in each half. They proved costly, as Dundalk had to settle for a share of the spoils - for the fifth time this season.
With Finn Harps overtaking Dundalk, leaving Trevor Anderson's side in fifth position in the table, a win this Thursday against Sligo Rovers is crucial. Don O'Riordan's side are coming off the back of a passionate 4-2 derby win over Galway United, and on-form striker Paul McTiernan will be buzzing with confidence. Sligo are a youthful side to like to play football, and with Dundalk also preferring a more pleasing on the eye style of football these days it promises to be a very open and interesting encounter.
24th November
Teenager Andrew Duffy marked his Oriel Park debut with a glorious goal last Thursday evening, but it was only good enough to earn Dundalk a draw, with two more points dropped after a 1-1 draw with Limerick. After the excitement of the Dublin City game, this was an extremely frustrating and disappointing match, with Dundalk just beginning to get on top when poor defending gifted Limerick an opening goal. 17 year old Duffy came off the bench to equalise after brilliant work by David Ward on 61 minutes, but in truth, Dundalk never really looked like scoring a winning goal.
Another win for Waterford United on Friday evening further consolidates their position at the head of the table, seven points clear of second placed Galway United, and nine points ahead of Dundalk with nine games remaining.
With Finn Harps winning at the weekend, Dundalk will firstly have to secure their playoff place, with things still tightly packed in behind Waterford. Next weekend, Dundalk travel to Cobh, and a win there would go some way to ensuring that Dundalk minds concentrate on looking upwards, not glancing nervously over shoulders.
18th November
Dundalk finally secured their first win under Trevor Anderson yesterday, with a 4-2 win away to Dublin City FC that marks the beginning of the second half of the season. Two goals each from Gary Haylock and Martin Reilly gave Dundalk the win, with the pair bouncing back from individually poor displays against Kilkenny City last week.
If this pair return to their very best form, then Dundalk should be capable of breaking down any defence in this division. Haylock looked like the same player that terrorised defences towards the end of last season, and provided the injury that forced him off the field isn't too serious, you would have to be seriously optimistic that Dundalk will follow up this win with another victory over Limerick this Thursday.
This victory moves Dundalk up to third place in the table, seven behind leaders Waterford United, and two points behind second placed Cobh Ramblers
MATCH REPORT - DUBLIN CITY 2 DUNDALK 4
If anything is going to stop Dundalk making a charge up the table now, it is injuries. Donal Broughan has picked up an Achilles injury, and faces a six week layoff. Some rumours even suggested he could be out for the rest of the season. Watching the game in the stand with Broughan today were John Whyte and Robbie Brunton, the two first choice full backs who are currently on the sidelines, with the latter seemingly no nearer to a return.
In addition to that, both Craig Deane and Gary Haylock left the field with injuries today. Deane was withdrawn after fifteen minutes, replaced by schoolboy Andrew Duffy, while Haylock limped off midway through the second half. Dundalk will be hoping the injuries aren't too serious. While it is fantastic to see young players coming through, it is important that too much pressure isn't placed on their shoulders too soon. Hopefully Deane and Haylock can pull through in time for Thursday night, and the following week's vital trip to Cobh
16th November
Dundalk's game away to Dublin City tomorrow afternoon at Santry Stadium goes ahead after the pitch passed an inspection this afternoon. With Waterford extending their advantage at the top to six points after a 3-2 win away to Athlone last night, Dundalk need a victory to move within seven points of Jimmy McGeough's side and into joint third position.
Robbie Brunton and Donal Broughan both miss out. David Hoey may well continue at left back, with John Flanagan coming in at right back for Donal Broughan.
Meanwhile, new manager Trevor Anderson looks to have his eye on the long term future of the club, attending last Sunday's youths match with Drumcondra at Oriel Park. As a result of that game, youngsters Simon Kelly, Eamonn Mulvenna and Andrew Duffy will join fellow youths Paidie Hearty, Alan McCartney and Sean Watters in being introduced to first team affairs since the arrival of Anderson.
11th November
Seven points off the pace is simply unacceptable for pre season promotion favourites, and after a winless run of four games, Dundalk simply must defeat Dublin City this coming Sunday at Morton Stadium. A sequence of five games without victory, which basically equates to almost a quarter of the season considering the shortened campaign, will basically rule Dundalk out of the automatic promotion race, with Waterford looking unlikely to slip up spectacularly. Sure, they will drop points, but it will require an incredible run of form from a side in Dundalk's position to be able to catch up and overtake them.
With the season at the halfway point, now is the perfect time to reassess and look ahead for the rest of the season. The ten day break between the Kilkenny game and the Dublin City offers the chance for a few more training sessions, more time for the manager with his team which will hopefully lead to a growing familiarity with the new style of play.
Dundalk find themselves seven points between Waterford United, but most worryingly, find themselves behind sides like Cobh Ramblers, Limerick and Galway United who, with all due respect, are working off a shoestring compared with Dundalk. Last Thursday's draw may not be a disaster in the long run. Kilkenny's debutants impressed, and they will finish in mid-table, possibly even the top half if their players perform to potential.
For Dundalk, the aims are obviously much higher and the coveted first place is still not impossible. It will take an unbeaten run from now to the end of the season, and probably around seven to eight wins in that period as well. It's a big ask, but Dundalk almost came close to escaping from relegation last season with an equally impressive run compared to what is being asked of this current side. Ironically, Waterford provide the best example of how fate can change towards the end of the season, as back in 1998/99 they won nearly all of their last nine games to escape from almost certain relegation to a top six finish. It can be done if you get the momentum going.
Dublin City provide a difficult challenge this Sunday. A formidable side, with ex-Dundalk players like Brendan Markey and Brian Morrisroe that are extremely experienced and capable on their day. Yet their season seems to be characterised by relatively tame defeats away from home, while taking the points on their own turf. Well, at least since moving to the Santry Stadium where they have taken full points from their games to date, with victories over Cobh Ramblers and Kilkenny City.
It's at this ground where their inconsistent, yet talented players are capable of producing good performances. And as they are likely to be coming up against several old adversaries from their past this Sunday when they meet some of the famous Dundalk faces, there is every chance they will raise their game even more. For Dundalk to rise above this, they will possibly need to produce one of their best performances of the season.
With Paul Curran and Craig Deane playing themselves into the side against Kilkenny City, Anderson will be faced with a selection dilemma if Brunton and Malone return from injury. Persisting with Broughan at right back may not be ideal, but it is unlikely Bryan McCrystal will be dropped. Brunton will certainly return for Hoey when he returns, with the manager left to choose between Hoey, Lawless and Kavanagh for two midfield berths. Lawless still fails to impress, with injuries perhaps saving him from the chop which could possibly wake him up a little. He may not be so lucky if Brunton is fit to play this Sunday.
Up front, under fire pair Martin Reilly and Gary Haylock really need to produce the goods, as a continuation of their current form will lead to calls for Cormac Malone to be installed in the starting line-up. You cannot question the ability of the front pair, but their baffling malaise, particuarly in the case of Haylock, presents Anderson with a real dilemma. How long can he persist with underperformers?
However, while general play has been poor, it's amazing what a bit of confidence can do for a striker. Haylock has been roundly criticised, almost unthinkable a few short months ago, but you can't help but feel that one goal after this lean period could really set him off again, especially with the finishing post in sight and each goal all the more vital.
Therefore, while it may seem daft to back Dundalk to win this Sunday, the Kilkenny game showed huge improvement in terms of passing the ball. If Dundalk keep faith with this style, and possibly show more confidence, it will lead to more chances being created on the ground for the likes of Haylock and Reilly. If they find form, then Dundalk will be back on track.
At the halfway mark of the season, it is time to forget the turbulent first eleven games, and focus on the job in hand. It's not over yet.
7th November
Dundalk fans were left shaking their heads tonight, after another disappointing result at Oriel Park : this time a 0-0 draw with Kilkenny City. Trevor Anderson introduced debutants Paul Curran and Craig Deane, and his Dundalk side played much better football, reverting from the long ball to a passing game which will take some time to adjust to. However, the coherency and cutting edge in forward areas was sadly lacking, with neither of the front men impressing. It is encouraging that Anderson wants his players to start playing football, but sadly it's questionable if the players can adjust in time to sustain a promotion challenge, although the manager is confident this can happen.
MATCH REPORT - Dundalk 0 Kilkenny City 0
31st October
Dundalk slumped to yet another defeat tonight, with their automatic promotion chances taking a severe blow with a 1-0 defeat to table toppers Waterford United, who extend their lead at the summit to five points. Brendan Rea scored the only goal of the game after 70 minutes, from Waterford's 15th corner of the match. A fact alone which emphasises their dominance for the majority of the game.
Forced into one change - Robbie Brunton missing out through an injury sustained before kickoff - Dundalk reshuffled with David Hoey filling in at left back, David Ward moving to the right side of midfield, Chris Lawless moving to the left, and John Flanagan coming into central midfield. Martin Reilly missed an early chance, but after that it was mainly Waterford who dominated with Alex Dixon missing a great chance to put them in front before half time.
Several chances were squandered by the hosts shortly into the second half, with Mick Dempsey and Bryan McCrystal clearing efforts off the line. However, luck ran out on 70 minutes, when a Kevin Waters corner was headed home by central defender Rea. Dundalk never looked like equalising, and now face an uphill battle to wrench the top spot from Jimmy McGeough's side, who remain unbeaten.
With the Paul Curran signing completed yesterday, the Shelbourne official website surprisingly broke the story of another Dundalk addition this afternoon. English midfielder Craig Dean, who started off as a trainee Manchester United, joined Shelbourne today, but almost immediately moved to Dundalk on loan for the rest of the season.
No Dundalk confirmation has been received yet, but Pat Fenlon comments on the site that his move to Dundalk will give Shels a chance to assess where he might fit into their plans for next season. The signing of a left sided midfielder could well mean a new position for David Ward, who Anderson appears to be a big fan of. During the Monaghan game, he elected to move him up front halfway through the match, while he was deployed on the right side of midfield in tonight's match against Waterford.
After the aforementioned defeat, Curran and Dean could be in line to make their debuts next Thursday evening, when struggling Kilkenny City visit Oriel Park.
31st October
Last Thursday was, according to Trevor Anderson, an opportunity to see if the poor performance in Galway was a once off. As the subsequent defeat showed, that was simply not the case, and well aware of what task he faces now - Anderson has his first real team selection to make this evening, ahead of the massive clash with table toppers Waterford United at the RSC.
Rumours suggest that Anderson may be about to add former Derry City veteran Paul Curran to the squad as player-coach ahead of the fixture, while Shane Reddish has also been linked with a return to Oriel Park.
Curran joins from Ards, a club he joined while Anderson was manager there, and will fill a coaching void left at the club by the departure of Arron Callaghan, Frank O'Neill and latterly, Ollie Ralph.
Reddish, on the other hand, was linked with the managerial job when it was up for grabs, and is also at Ards. That suggests he fancies a crack at the coaching side of the game, and given the fact he still visits Oriel, and has worked with Anderson before, it wouldn't be too surprising to see him arriving back at the club. Those who remember him as a right back may be surprised to hear that he has converted to a central midfielder in the Irish League.
Curran comes into the squad for tonight's game, but it's quite likely there will be a different starting eleven from the side which capitulated against Monaghan. Curran may well replace Bryan McCrystal in the back four, with Donal Broughan unlikely to lose his place.
Chris Lawless, substituted in both games of Anderson's tenure may well lose his place to John Flanagan, while Martin Reilly will be sweating on his starting position - although Trevor Anderson's failure to use Cormac Malone last Thursday suggests that Reilly may hold onto his place in the interim.
In fact, with Darcy and Whyte injured, there really aren't that many other recognised options for Anderson - which may accelerate the need for new additions.
Waterford are coming into this game off the back of four straight draws - with their blend of foreign players brought in from the States, and local talent, welded together by Jimmy McGeough finding it hard to follow up on their excellent early season. Yet, with everyone taking points off each other, they still regain the top spot, although Dundalk can wrench it from them tomorrow evening. Striker Vinny Sullivan has been their top man this season, but significantly, they have struggled in midfield recently - which may offer encouragement for Dundalk ahead of tomorrow night - Kavanagh may find the opportunity to regain his old form.
Dundalk will have to work hard to get a result this evening. If they can draw games like these, and win their home games, promotion would be assured. However, from past experience in this division, given it's topsy turvy nature, it wouldn't be wholly surprising to see Dundalk emerge from this game victorious. Players like Haylock, Reilly and Kavanagh simply have to return to form, to back up Ward who has been playing well recently.
Like all games in Division One, there is no need to fear the opposition, it's just a matter of Dundalk finding the form they know they are capable of. We'll know a lot about the mettle of this side, come 9:30pm this evening.
27th October
Several Dundalk players will be worried about their future at the club, after new manager Trevor Anderson watched them turn in another terrible display to lose by a flattering scoreline of 2-1 to local rivals Monaghan United. First half goals from Trevor Vaughan and John Lester put Monaghan into a comfortable 2-0 lead which was easily maintained during the second half as a lacklustre Dundalk side, containing SEVEN players that were involved in the FAI Cup Final success last April, failed to trouble a side who were securing their first win of the season.
After the game manager Trevor Anderson accepted he was taking on quite a difficult task, and wouldn't be afraid to bring in new players, or even draft in new players if the current first team squad wasn't delivering. For players like Chris Lawless and Martin Reilly, who have twice been withdrawn by Anderson will be sweating on their Oriel Park futures.
Thankfully, in comparison with his predecessor, Anderson has been taking in youth matches and under 21 matches since taking the reins at Oriel Park, and given the fact that his first managerial job was as the boss of Linfield Youths, he has acknowledged his interest in developing youth at the clubs he works at.
Hopefully he'll be given time to implement his policies. The only opposition to Anderson last Thursday came from some bigots, including one wearing a Newcastle top who hadn't even bothered to pay in to the ground, instead hopping over the wall, and those who believe Ollie should be brought back - obviously unaware that Ralph talking himself out of the job in his interview by refusing to commit past the end of this current season.
This Thursday's game against Waterford marks the end of the honeymoond period for some of the players, with Anderson giving them two chancs to prove themselves. Changes could well be made.
20th October
Dundalk FC, and indeed the whole Irish footballing community are today mourning the death of one of the bravest and the best, Barry Kehoe, who died suddenly on Friday at the tender age of 40. Kehoe is fondly recalled by Dundalk fans as one of the all time greats, who is a regular fixture in any all time Dundalk XI should the topic be discussed from time to time. A Dundalk man through and through, Barry broke into the side as a teenager in the early 80's, but at the age of 20 he was struck down with cancer. He battled back from that, and played a part in the double winning side of 1987/88 before illness struck him down again. A hugely successful testimonial against the Irish international side was organised for Barry in 1989, and he wrote a book detailing his troubles.
He returned to football with Drogheda United at the tail end of his career, a shadow of his former self - many believe he would have gone right for the top were it not for all his struggles - yet through it all he remained a through gentleman - a fact constantly reiterate by all who knew him.
His death completely overshadowed Trevor Anderson's first game in charge away to Galway United on Saturday, a game in which Dundalk were lucky to take a point when sub John Flanagan headed home a Robbie Brunton free kick four minutes from time. New boss Anderson looked far from impressed with several of his side, and one can expect changes over the coming weeks as the highly regarded boss looks to stamp his authority on the club
Galway United 1 Dundalk 1 - Match Report
Next up for Dundalk are Monaghan this Thursday, in an increasingly tight First Division. Finn Harps' loss to Kildare County added to Waterford's draw with Monaghan means things are very tight at the top of the table - with Waterford a single point ahead of Dundalk with the season approaching the halfway stage already.
The most consistent side will take the title, and it is imperative Dundalk start winning home games consistently, beginning this Thursday against old foes Monaghan United.
18th October
Trevor Anderson's tenure as manager of Dundalk FC begins tomorrow evening away to Galway United, after the surprise appointment of the 51 year old former Linfield, Newry and Ards manager on Tuesday evening. A press conference was held yesterday in Oriel Park to formally introduce the new man, who understandably has been told his job is to get Dundalk to the Premier Division - and keep them there.
Former Man Utd player Anderson was hugely successful in his managerial career at Linfield, and his appointment has been widely welcomed by Dundalk supporters, except the usual bigots barely beyond evolution.
Ollie Ralph has decided to leave the club, with no word on who will make up the coaching staff alongside Anderson. His appointment means there will be a larger travelling support than normal for a game away to Galway tomorrow.
After only one training session with his new side, reports have suggested that the same starting eleven as the Finn Harps game will take to the field in Galway. Although the performance against Finn Harps wasn't as good as the scoreline may suggest, a repeat would be enough to overcome a Galway side which currently lies in sixth position in the table.
As for the new man Anderson : he is a familiar name to those who pay attention to the game north of the border. He managed the hugely successful Linfield side of the mid 90's which was the best team on the island at the time with players such as Haylock, Fenlon and Dessie Gorman. During his playing career, he earned 22 international caps for Northern Ireland while his list of clubs as a player includes Portadown, Manchester United, Swindon, Peterborough and Linfield.
His appointment is a hugely ambitious step from the club, given that the easy option would have been to stick with Ollie Ralph for the rest of the season for financial purposes. The Anderson decision shows that the club is determined to get back to the Premier Division, and is prepared to take the gamble of bringing in big names to do so. With a manager that is surely well paid, and the highest wage bill in the division, the board have done their bit : it's now over to the new manager and the underachievers he has inherited.
6th October
A Cormac Malone strike in the dying seconds gave Dundalk a fortunate 3-2 win over Kildare County at Station Road yesterday, in a game that caretaker manager Ollie Ralph's side could easily have lost. After squandering a 2-0 lead, Ralph's side found themselves under pressure at 2-2, and a glaring miss from Kildare striker Phil Gorman allowed Dundalk time to break forward and score a scarcely deserved winning goal. With Waterford drawing at the weekend, Dundalk find themselves three points off the lead ahead of this Thursday's massive game at home to Finn Harps.
Goals from Donal Broughan and Gary Haylock put Dundalk into an early lead, but former Dundalk striker John Ryan and midfielder Cathal O'Connor had Kildare level twenty minutes from time. Substitute Cormac Malone swooped in injury time to fire a dramatic late winner....Match Report
The victory moves Dundalk into third position three points behind Waterford United at the top of the table. Finn Harps lie second, two points behind Waterford, and they will be in Oriel Park this Thursday for a massive game which brings the pre season promotion favourites together for their first serious meeting of the season. Ultimately, it is a game that could go some way in deciding the destination of the First Division Championship, and with Dundalk having home advantage, it is a game they will feel they have to win.
With star striker Kevin McHugh back in scoring form for Harps, the leaky Dundalk defence will be kept extremely busy. However, the game carries an importance that will make it different from a typical First Division game, which hopefully means the players who starred in the Cup winning run last year will produce the form they are capable of for the big occasion. If Dundalk are to win the game, the midfield pair of Kavanagh and Lawless will simply have to improve their performance.
However, the Harps game may not be the most significant event of the week, as a shareholders meeting tomorrow night at Oriel Park will play a big part in deciding the path of the club. Questions to be raised, and put to the shareholders are expected to be : What are the aims of Dundalk FC? Is promotion with the current squad, who are a financial burden in the First Division, the right course of action to take? Or should Dundalk take a step back, cut costs and try and rebuild the club from the start, more than likely sacrificing promotion in the first place.
Also, should Ollie Ralph be offered the managers job? Or should Dundalk look to make an appointment from outside? It promises to be a pivotal event in the short term, and potentially, long term future of the club
30th September
Assistant manager Ollie Ralph has taken temporary control of the Dundalk first team, while the board mull over options as regards a potential replacement. With the current First Division campaign being so short, Des Denning and co must decide whether to take a gamble and appoint a replacement from outside the club, or hand the job to Ralph or someone else within the club until the end of the season.
For the moment, Ralph looks set to have temporary control for the trip to Kildare County on Saturday, while newspapers link ex-Drogheda and Longford manager Martin Lawlor, and former Shamrock Rovers and Dundalk defender Paul Whelan with the job. Other long shots include the inimitable Dermot Keely who has shrugged off speculation, Monaghan manager Bobby Browne, and current striker Gary Haylock
The board is set to have a meeting today [Monday], but it's unlikely they will have appointed or pinpointed a manager from outside the club at such short notice. Therefore, for the time being Ralph, along with Tommy McConville will be looking after team matters.
Saturday's trip to Kildare County poses a big test for Dundalk, with Dermot Keely's side scoring their first win of the season last Saturday against Sligo Rovers. With Finn Harps and Galway overtaking them at the weekend, and Waterford now five points ahead, the promotion favourites really need three points to give them impetus into the massive game at home to Finn Harps
26th September
Martin Murray's reign as manager of Dundalk is over, with the Dubliner resigning after a shockingly inept 4-2 defeat at home to Athlone. To further compound the woes of Murray, he was sent off during the game after losing his temper at the referee over a reasonably innocuous incident.
After the game, Murray and manager Des Denning were spotted deep in conversation in the tunnel, and shortly afterwards it was announced to assembled press that Murray had resigned. Since taking over in June 2000, Murray's Dundalk side have been promoted, then relegated, while also winning the FAI Cup. In fact, it's hard to believe that it has only been two years.
For the co-op board, it is a major test as they seek to find the correct replacement. The introduction of Murray was one of their first moves upon taking control of the club, and Des Denning's faith in his manager has been unshaking. The two names certain to emerge as the leading candidates are Dundalk legend, and former Drogheda and Longford manager Martin Lawlor, and current striker Gary Haylock.
22nd September
Dundalk secured a vital 2-0 win away to Sligo Rovers on Saturday despite not hitting top form on the night. In a poor game, both sides toiled in the first half before a moment of magic gave Dundalk the lead on 42 minutes. A well worked move started by Gary Haylock ended with a Chris Lawless cross finding the back on form Haylock ten yards out, where he headed precisely to the back of the net.
The visitors endured a nervous second half, desperately holding onto their 1-0 lead as Sligo had numerous set piece opportunities. With Bryan McCrystal and Donal Broughan outstanding at the back, Dundalk held on and when sub Cormac Malone was hacked down in the penalty area after 89 minutes , Broughan converted from the spot to secure the points.
Sub Mark Webb was sent off shortly afterwards, after picking up a second yellow card for timewasting. The win moves Martin Murray's side up to second in the table, two points behind early leaders, Waterford United.
Meanwhile, Dundalk will be without full back for John Whyte for several months, possibly ruling him out for the rest of the season after it was confirmed that he fractured his cheekbone just four minutes into the clash with Cobh Ramblers last weekend. Scans confirmed the worst fears of those at Oriel, and the injury gives Chris Malone to forge a regular berth for himself in the starting eleven.
Dundalk's poor financial situation has been dealt another blow, with the news that funding for the cross border project with Linfield FC has come to an end, meaning the end of the Dunfield experiment. Parties from both clubs have expressed regret at the outcome, and are pressing for investment that will keep the deal alive.
In other financial news, rumours suggest that Dundalk could well be looking to JJB Sports, who are building a new leisure facility in the town, as potential future sponsors of the club in some capacity. JJB have a history of investing in all sports in the towns where they become heavily involved, with the most prominent example being Wigan, of the English Second Division who are sponsored by JJB, and play in a stadium bearing the name of the sports company.
21st September
Dundalk travel to Sligo Rovers this evening for a crucial eircom League First Division clash, with manager Martin Murray admitting that his players will be relieved to get away from the demanding Oriel Park fans.
Murray told the Dundalk Democrat this week that criticism from the terraces was affecting players. "The fans should encourage them and not wait to knock them if they make a mistake. It's a fear factor at Oriel at present, and it's getting to the players...some supporters would slag the players even if we parachuted Manchester United into Oriel Park for every home match."
While the criticism against Cobh was overly extreme, to say the least, the fact remains that Dundalk have the best side in this division, yet consistently underperform. After seeing what this club is capable of, with the FAI Cup success, it is unrealistic to expect fans to accept home draws in Division One.
Tonight's game against Sligo poses a real challenge, with Don O'Riordan's young side already having defeated Dundalk in the First Division Cup this season. However, that result was deceiving as Dundalk had absolutely nothing to play for at the time, while Sligo were gunning for a place in the final
A nasty injury to John Whyte rules him out of the game, with Chris Malone likely to slot in at right back. Alternatively, David Hoey could revert to that role, with John Flanagan coming in on the right side of midfield. Ross Darcy is doubtful, and may not be fit enough to displace Donal Broughan, also struggling with injury, or Bryan McCrystal in central defence.
With Finn Harps struggling in Athlone last night, it shows that points can easily be dropped at this level. However, the chance to make serious progress this weekend should spur on Dundalk. Sligo are a good side, but a very young and raw side. Dundalk have several experienced professionals, who should have the know how to allow experience triumph over youth. If the players are doing their job on the pitch correctly, then that will answer any potential problems on the terraces. It's as simple as that.
14th September
Dundalk dropped two points at home again last night, when they failed to kill off Cobh Ramblers in a game that eventually finished 2-2. Dundalk created chance after chance, but after finally coming back from a goal down to go 2-1 ahead, a Michael Dempsey error allowed Cobh to steal a draw. With a dog occasionally invading the pitch, the night had a hint of the surreal about it. Even more confusing was the fact that Dundalk weren't in front by the time Cobh took the lead on 55 minutes.
Ironically, Martin Relly and David Hoey, the two biggest culprits for missing chances redeemed themselves to turn the tables and put Martin Murray's side in front. However, a dipping Bruton strike caught Dempsey off guard nine minutes from time to salvage a point for an average Cobh side.
Despite the disappointing result, the performance of David Ward provided some cheer, with the Blackrock lad looking to be far far too good for this level, after another terrific display on the left wing. Let's just hope he is given the chance to develop and settle in that position
7th September
Dundalk lost 2-0 to Shelbourne on Friday in the Presidents Cup, the last competition Dundalk qualified for by virtue of their FAI Cup Final victory. In what was an extremely low key affair, Dundalk gave as good as they got for the majority of the game, before costly defensive errors late on gifted Shelbourne two goals. Dundalk experimented with a 3-4-3 formation, with Ward, Haylock and Reilly up front. The lowest point of the night was in fact the loss of Ross Darcy through injury, with Dundalk fans hoping it is not too serious as the new signing is beginning to look more assured at centre half.
With only Donal Broughan, Robbie Brunton and Chris Lawless missing from a first choice side, Dundalk went with a 3-4-3 formation with Darcy and McCrystal as markers in the back three, with Whyte in a sweeper role. Marc Webb played, and impressed at left wing back, with David Hoey at right wing back against an almost completely full strength Shels side. The first half was evenly contested with Shelbourne missing the best chances, but Dundalk coming closest through Martin Reilly who forced Shels keeper Chris Bennion into an excellent save from eight yards after a fantastic through ball from Chris Malone, who replaced the injured Darcy.
The game seemed to be heading for 0-0, and penalties as the final minutes approached but then Bryan McCrystal, who had been fantastic up until then left a backpass to Mick Dempsey short. Tony Sheridan nipped in to give Shels the lead. In the final seconds Shels broke away with Byrne getting away from McCrystal and crossing for Sheridan who made it 2-0. Sub Cormac Malone, who looks badly short on confidence missed a sitter in the dying seconds, and is one player who badly needs a goal.
Next Saturday Dundalk face Cobh Ramblers, who, contrary to Gary Haylock's column in the Dundalk Democrat actually have full points to date, as well as Galway. Cobh started off with a brilliant 1-0 win away to Finn Harps, and followed up with a 3-2 win against Monaghan last weekend. They will provide a stiff test for Dundalk in Oriel Park next Saturday, but nevertheless, it is a game Dundalk simply must win
Presidents Cup Side : Mick Dempsey, John Whyte, Marc Webb, Ross Darcy, Bryan McCrystal, John Flanagan, David Hoey, Martin Reilly, Gary Haylock, David Ward, Ciaran Kavanagh : SUBS USED : Chris Malone, Cormac Malone, Chris Lawless
2nd September
Gary Haylock returned to form on Sunday, scoring twice to give Dundalk a vital first League win of the season in Limerick. The Englishman struck after 32 & 40 minutes to put Martin Murray's side into a 2-0 lead. Derek Whyte scored for Limerick on the stroke of half time to narrow the margin. The score remained at 2-1, and Dundalk secured their first win since the opening game of the First Division Cup in Monaghan. The return to form of Haylock is particularly encouraging, and bodes well for the season ahead.
Martin Murray made two changes from the side defeated by Varteks on Thursday, with Mick Dempsey replacing John Connolly, and Chris Lawless replacing captain Ciaran Kavanagh
Haylock gave Dundalk the lead after 32 minutes, firing home from close range after a Chris Lawless free kick was deflected into his path. Eight minutes later, David Ward, who again impressed on the left side of midfield crossed for Haylock who finished clinically from eight yards. Whyte headed home from six yards on the stroke of half time, and Dundalk endured some nervous moments in the early part of the second half as Limerick went in search of an equaliser. Donal Broughan, who was partnered in central defence by Ross Darcy, was Dundalk's best performer of the day, defending strongly to keep the winning margin intact. Dundalk had chances in the final ten minutes to put a more flattering look on the scoreline, but in the end had to settle for 2-1
Team : Dempsey, Whyte, Brunton, Broughan, Darcy, Flanagan, Hoey, Reilly, Haylock [Cormac Malone 74], Lawless [Chris Malone 89], Ward [Kavanagh 74]
1st September
Out of the FAI Cup, out of the UEFA Cup, no League Cup, Dundalk can have no excuses if they fail to achieve promotion this year. They have no other interests, no distractions, and cannot be accused of raising their game for just the high profile matches, because in Division One, you're scrapping away in relative obscurity. On Monday, you will struggle to find any kind of coverage of Dundalk's game in Limerick. The tabloids will devote a few paragraphs, and that will be about it. It's a big step down from UEFA Cup football. However, the Dundalk players are surely well aware that if they want to get back to big games with big crowds, they will have to put in 100% in games like this. The hard road back to the Premier Division truly starts here
After all, despite the quality of opposition varying greatly since the start of the season, Dundalk have only won ONCE in ten games, and that was the first game of the season. Winless in nine games. Sure, it's an unfair statistic to overquote, but winning breeds confidence. After taking quite a hammering on Thursday night, a victory is simply essential this afternoon in Jackman Park.
With a break after this game due to the Cup exit, it's fair to say that the Dundalk team after the break will probably be a stronger one than the one that faces Limerick tomorrow. In Gary Haylock and Ross Darcy, Dundalk have two quality players still short on fitness. Chris Lawless is also carrying a knock, and David Hoey is also being troubled by the head injury he picked up against Dublin City. The chance to recharge batteries, at such an early stage, will surely benefit the players in question, although hopefully an under 21 game or some kind of friendly will provide a chance to increase match sharpness for the likes of Haylock and Darcy with less at stake.
Taking that into consideration, it will be interesting to see what side Murray opts to start with against Limerick as Donal Broughan is back from suspension, and will certainly start. The prudent option may well be to rest Darcy, and keep faith with McCrystal, despite the fact Darcy had the better game in Tolka on Thursday. The competition between the trio can only be good for the team, as they are all very capable players. The only hope is that Murray doesn't send one of them out to right back, as he has done with Broughan in the past.
Haylock should start, and will probably receive better service at this level than he did in the European ties. In fact, taking the Varteks game out of the equation, Dundalk should look to eradicate the mistakes they made against Dublin City, where the first half display was lethargic. The defence that night lapsed at vital times, and it was only in the final half hour that the midfielders really sprung to life and dominated their opponents. A repetition of the play in the final minutes against Dublin City is required from the outset today. Limerick are tough to beat, but no world beaters, and as the saying goes, if you want to get promoted, you have got to win games like these.
29th August
When Dundalk lost in Croatia, the fans still emerged from the stadium feeling proud. The team had given 100% and had been outclassed by a full strength Varteks side, who played at full tempo for 90 minutes. Last night in Tolka Park, in front of a poor crowd [where are the 7th of April, "we'll support you evermore" crowd gone to ?], Dundalk played against an understrength Varteks side, and were easily beaten, leaving Europe with little more than a whimper. Dundalk did not play well, and did not give a good account of themselves, unable to "give it a go" as promised. However, Limerick on Sunday is where the important business of promotion takes precedence, leaving only memories from the UEFA Cup experience.
The night started poorly, when the size of the crowd didn't warrant opening three sides of the Tolka Park ground. Having all the fans together was probably a good thing, although staring at three empty stands was pretty depressing, especially the Ballybough End given the wonderful memories we have of there from the Cup Final. A different world, and a reminder of how much can change in the space of three months. It seems like years ago.
Varteks made six changes, but star man Mumlek still played. However, like his teammates, he looked pretty lethargic in the first half with few moments of brilliance or inspiration. Yet, Dundalk weren't able to cause Varteks any kind of problems. The frustration was added to when Varteks went in 1-0 up after scoring a simple headed goal from a corner. Whatever about a gulf in class, the concession of such a goal at any level is simply not good enough. Cannot make excuses about them being so good, when it comes to goals like that.
After the break, Mumlek and Karic were taken off by Varteks, but their subs were out to make an impression. Varteks didn't look like running riot, although they scored a goal of quality after 50 minutes to double their advantage on the night. When Bryan McCrystal was sent off, for a second bookable offence that was deserved, the floodgates opened and when Haylock was taken off to be replaced by Chris Malone, it was backs to wall ala Varazdin. When you're at home, and have nothing to lose, it was quite hard to take. Varteks added a further two, with a contrast between them. The first came after an embarassing slip by Brunton in his own penalty area. The second was a twenty five yard cracker. Sums up the combination that made it 4-0 on the night. Varteks were good, but we made it damn easy for them as well.
The most impressive player for Dundalk on the night, by far, was David Ward. Ironic really, that a player like Wardy who tries to do skilful things gets more stick than any other player, with the Dundalk crowd instead preferring players who put the tackles in, but lack quality on the ball. It sums up the Irish attitude really, we want different things from our footballers, and that is why we are lagging miles behind so many other countries.
The other plus was Ross Darcy. Looking fitter, he performed well and made some crucial interceptions. When he achieves full fitness, I think we'll find we've made an excellent signing.
I'd love to say we'd done our best in Europe. But we didn't. In Croatia, the players did do themselves proud, but last night they looked overly nervous, so much so it was disturbing. Only Wardy looked comfortable with the ball at his feet, while the rest couldn't get rid of it quick enough. Croatia was a trip to remember, the game in Tolka last night was a game to forget. End of story.
It's very hard to criticise the players, especially because Varteks were better. And, the fact that they would have beaten us regardless. I just wish we had exited the competition with a little more pride in tact, and not with such a dour lifeless performance. Bring on the Limerick!
28th August
Dundalk's UEFA Cup campaign will end tomorrow evening, when they "host" FC Varteks at Tolka Park. Due to the seating regulations placed on all clubs by UEFA, Dundalk are unable to welcome their Croatian visitors to Oriel Park. Instead, the Dublin venue where Dundalk won the FAI Cup will host the tie, although it is unlikely to play host to the same crowd of travelling Dundalk fans that invaded Drumcondra in April. The first leg defeat of 5-0 will definitely hit the crowd, with the club depending on the loyalty and patience of some of the more fair weather Dundalk supporters.
If the crowd is poor, then the UEFA Cup will have actually heightened the club's financial problems, which isn't welcome news at this stage of the season. Dundalk will be hoping that eircom League fans in Dublin come out to watch the game, just as they did for the games involving Shelbourne, Shamrock Rovers and Bohemians in recent years. However, a lot will depend on those Dundalk fans who don't usually go to games, that donned themselves in black and white for the Cup final last April. Their support for the UEFA Cup tie is badly needed.
On the pitch, it's hard to know what to expect. Sources in Croatia suggest Varteks may not be sending their strongest side as they are well into their League campaign now, and after winning both League games since meeting Dundalk, they have another important game on Sunday which may well take precedence over this game which looks to be nothing more than a formality. Still, even a weakened Varteks side would pose a severe challenge for Dundalk, who will again be without the suspended Donal Broughan. It is unclear if Noel Melvin is fit enough to take his place in central defence, and if Dundalk are without the Monaghan based defender, they may even opt to go with John Flanagan in the back four, and play their preferred 4-4-2 formation. After all, there is nothing to lose and it would be nice if the Dundalk supporters even had one goal to cheer.
For the sake of Irish football, even a draw would boost the coefficient somewhat. After the demoralising, but inevitable 5-0 defeat in Varazdin, it would be nice if Dundalk could somehow manage to grab a result in this second leg tie. That will depend solely, however, on the attitude and strength of the opposition.
22nd August
A 90th minute strike from David Ward rescued a point for Dundalk against Dublin City in Oriel Park tonight, as the opening First Division game of the season finished 2-2. Dundalk lapsed in defence twice, to give Dublin City the lead on two occasions, but when they played the ball on the deck opened up their opponents easily. Martin Reilly equalised the first Dublin City goal, shortly into the second half. Ex-Dundalk striker Brendan Markey put Dublin City in front, and after visiting keeper Kevin McCormack was sent off for a handball outside the box, David Ward stepped up in a dramatic finale to calmly finish and save a point for Dundalk that may well prove to be crucial as the season develops. Disaster was averted.
Dundalk were pretty much at full strength for this game, but were twice sucker punched by Dublin City just as the hosts were getting a grip on the game. Dundalk, after a slow start, were settling into the game and had created a few chances just before Alan McNevin volleyed Dublin City into the lead after 25 minutes. Martin Reilly equalised after the break, and Dundalk pushed forward for a winner with the crowd right behind them. However, out of absolutely nowhere, from a kickout Brendan Markey got ahead of McCrystal to flight the ball over Connolly and make it 2-1. Dundalk went for the equaliser, and Dub keeper Kevin McCormack was sent off for a handball outside the area as Gary Haylock advanced in a one on one situation. The visitors were pushed further and further back, and it was no surprise when Ward equalised in the 90th minute. It was just a shame it hadn't come earlier, as Dundalk could have gone on to get the winner they deserved on the balance of play
22nd August
Dundalk vs Dublin City - PREVIEW
Last Thursday evening, on live Croat television in front of a big crowd with a massive build up Dundalk faced FC Varteks in the UEFA Cup. This Thursday, it's back down to earth, and back to a level where Dundalk can dominate with the opening of the First Division campaign against Dublin City at Oriel Park.
Dundalk are 3/1 clear favourites to win First Division, and that statistic alone highlights the pressure on Martin Murray and his team to return to the Premier Division at the first attempt. With a 22 game campaign, a good start is vital and with the Dundalk team beginning to return to something like full strength, the season proper could be starting at just the right time for Martin Murray's men.
The game against John Toal's Dublin City tonight is the start of a short sprint season, as opposed to the long endurance battle that normally is the quest for promotion. Dundalk will play each team only twice, and a poor start could be fatal as the season progresses. It will all be over by January, and for Martin Murray, it is very much the season that will determine his future as Dundalk manager.
Since returning from Croatia, the likes of Broughan, McCrystal and Haylock all played in an under 21 match versus Shelbourne on Monday night, a game which Dundalk won 1-0. For Broughan, it was merely an exercise to regain match sharpness, and he will definitely start tonight. Haylock played an hour of the match, as he battles to return to full fitness. He will undoubtedly play a part against Dublin City, a feat which looked unlikely as he toiled in the final minutes in Varazdin, but it is doubtful if he will start the game. Dundalk should return to a more familiar 4-4-2, and if Haylock does start from the bench, Chris Lawless may revert to the left side of midfield with David Ward up front. Otherwise, Lawless could be tried out in a more forward role just behind Martin Reilly. If Haylock does start, Murray will have to decide which of Flanagan, Kavanagh and Lawless he will sacrifice.
Such dilemmas show that, with everyone fit, Dundalk have a pretty strong squad. Let's not get too pessimistic after the start to the season we've had to date. Nine of the Cup winning team are still at the club. David Crawley has been replaced by Robbie Brunton without much upheaval, while either Bryan McCrystal or Ross Darcy will replace Stephen McGuinness in time. When we have our best team on the pitch, there is no other team in the First Division that can compare.
That is the thought that Dundalk should take into the game with Dublin City. Not with arrogance, but with confidence. Dublin City fluked a 1-0 win over Dundalk in the First Division Cup when Liam Dunne ended his Dundalk career with a few moments of stupidity. With a more disclipined performance, Dundalk can start the road back to the Premier Division tonight with a comfortable two goal victory.
19th August
So the travelling part of the European adventure is over, and in truth, the tie itself is decided beyond doubt after last Thursday's 5-0 defeat to FC Varteks, but for those who travelled to Croatia, it is a experience they will doubtless never forget. Or perhaps, never completely remember.
Oriel Web On Tour "Operation Varazdin" will detail the social aspect of the trip as soon as the memory function chronologically sorts everything out, but for the moment all we can report with some conviction that it actually happened, is that Dundalk lost 5-0. And in truth, 5-0 was flattering to Dundalk.
Sure, this wasn't Dundalk's strongest team. There is no doubt that with a fully fit Gary Haylock and Robbie Brunton, both of whom carrying knocks that clearly affected their performance, that Dundalk would have acquitted themselves better. The loss of Donal Broughan to suspension also left an extremely makeshift look to the Dundalk defence, especially when Noel Melvin was lost to injury early into the game.
The decision to go 4-5-1 will be questioned by many, especially when despite having the extra man in midfield, Dundalk failed to pick up the Varteks playmaker Mario Mumlek. However, such changes may only have limitised damage further. The result would not have changed, and as a follower of Irish football who firmly believes some of our top teams are well capable of competing in Europe, I honestly do not believe any Irish team could have come away from Varazdin with any kind of result.
The first goal, a soft mistake after a mixup between Brunton and Connolly, was frustrating to concede but Dundalk were powerless to prevent the second goal, a 25 yard first time left foot volley that almost broke the net. A questionable foul by John Whyte on mullet haired Varteks striker Karic shortly after the break, just when Dundalk were having their best spell of the game, killed the game as a contest. Bad defending from a corner led to said Karic making it four nil, while the fifth was a superb half volley in the dying seconds, to answer the Dundalk chants of "next goal wins".
After the game, just as before the game, the Dundalk players received a rousing reception. We can be the toughest fans of all to please, and while the players looked bitterly disappointed by the margin of the defeat, it was patently obvious that they were outclassed. Every Dundalk player gave 100%, with Ward, McCrystal and Whyte impressing. Connolly made several fine stops in goal, while Lawless was the player that impressed Varteks fans the most, and along with Ward played without fear and was brave enough to run at the Varteks defence. The second leg is merely a formality, but it would be nice for Dundalk to gain some kind of respectable result. By giving Lawless and Ward licence to run at the Varteks defence in the home leg, Martin Murray could possibly salvage some kind of credibility from the tie.
Despite the heavy defeat, the trip to Croatia could seriously benefit the team over the course of the season. They were back in training the day after the game, and it goes without saying that the few days away together will have immeasurably improved team spirit. This team will always have some kind of bond, that should carry them through the league season to first division glory. Hopefully, some of the skills and movement of the Varteks players will also rub off on some of our players.
This Thursday, Dundalk return to the bread and butter of First Division action. While the European game was a nice adventure, it is the league football that pays the bills. Promotion is expected, and a good start is a must in a 22 game campaign. While the fans that travelled to Croatia may well spend a considerable period of the game reminiscing, the Dundalk players will have to forget all that has gone on, and focus on the beginning of the road back to the Premier Division and further European adventures.
12th August
So the plans are made, the flights booked, the hotel waiting. When Dundalk won the FAI Cup Final back in April, all and sundry proclaimed that they would go to the European game, wherever it may be. The draw for the UEFA Cup qualifying round pitted us with the furthest trip possible, against FC Varteks, based in Northern Croatia. The cost, the timing, and numerous events have ruled out several, but 120 or so Dundalk fans will be there on Thursday night to see a game that no-one, not even our management, gives us any chance of winning or drawing whatsoever.
Tomorrow, Tuesday, we will all set off on our various routes. The Oriel Web trip will set off for Klagenfurt in Austria early in the morning, and make their way to Croatia from there. Others are travelling via Graz, others are already on their way now, taking in places such as Italy and Slovenia along the way. The offical trip sets off tomorrow night, flying straight to Zagreb and arriving in Varazin in the early hours of Wednesday morning.
With Dundalk expected to lose, many will question the sanity of those going, but the fact remains that you never really know when the chance will come to see your team playing in Europe again. When Dundalk last played in Europe against Malmo, back in 1995, many passed over the opportunity to travel to Sweden because European forays were regular occurances for Dundalk at the time. Only those within the club at the time possibly knew that it would be quite a while before Dundalk competed in European competition again. We do so with a shadow hanging over our club, the spectre of relegation and all it brings with it still hanging over the club despite the Cup triumph. First Division football looms for this side, and many crucial battles lie ahead. The European tie is a nice distraction, but one hopes it doesn't have a demoralising effect on the season ahead. You can sense Martin Murray already trying to dampen any euphoria brought about by a crushing defeat, by his words in the Ireland On Sunday at the weekend,
"'Looking at it from our point of view, all we can do is set out our stall to do our best away from home and see if we can nick any type of result.....All I'm saying is that I wouldn't hold out too much hope of that happening'"
Hardly inspiring stuff for those travelling, with the scepticism displayed characterising most of the season to date so far. Murray's melancholy can be somewhat explained by his side's injury problems. Suspension to Donal Broughan, and an injury to Noel Melvin means that Ross Darcy, a player originally deemed too unfit to travel, has been called into the panel and may even start with the former Spurs and Barnet player facing his greatest test since returning from injury against a side who have taken the scalp of Aston Villa in recent seasons and are already several games into their domestic campaign. So are Dundalk, but then again, we haven't taken it very seriously. Gary Haylock is still doubtful with injury, with Murray making noises about starting him from the bench despite his sprightly arrival against Sligo last week for the final half hour. Brunton and Kavanagh limped off against Sligo, while Reilly and Lawless missed out with minor knocks. They all must recover.
The injuries, the problems, the grievances will all be discussed in great detail on the long journeys that lie ahead. That said, without meaning to live up to an Irish stereotype that would make Roy Keane shiver, you can be sure the supporters will have a good time anyway. Croatia is a part of the world growing as a tourist destination, that has really only been opened to the outside world in recent years. By all accounts, it has plenty to offer and the cultural town of Varazdin will no doubt be etched in Dundalk folklore no matter what happens. Oh yeah, and the beer is cheap, damn bloody cheap.
The journey starts here. To those that stay behind, let's just hope that the news from Thursday is good and that we have a second leg with some competitive element to look forward to. To everyone that is going, whatever your planned route, we will meet soon in Croatia. Operation Varazdin is less than twenty four hours away.
Bring it on !
8th August
You had to feel sorry for the delegation from FC Varteks who had came along to check Dundalk out for this First Division Cup game. After all, they have just been victim to a practical joke, mind games, whatever you want to call it. Yes, the 2-0 loss to Sligo was just a ploy to lull the Croatians into a false sense of security.
I mean, did they really think that was serious ? Beforehand, we even let a couple of dogs on the pitch to lie around and make us look like a bunch of mad Paddies. Crazy Irish, Crazy Irish ! They'll be telling them all in Croatia.
The lack of enthusiasm from the Dundalk team, the woeful first touches, the inability to string two passes together - all a plan. The inactivity on the bench, a masterstroke. While the opposition manager strode the touchline barking instructions, drumming things into his team, our management team calmly stood back from the action, refusing to get involved, no doubt with little smiles on their faces. "The Croatians must be lapping this up", they will have thought to themselves as Dundalk defender John Whyte volleyed home unmarked to give Sligo a 2-0 lead. Just to give our visitors even more cause for optimism, Dundalk obviously staged injuries to captain Ciaran Kavanagh, and left back Robbie Brunton who both left the field with looks of distress on their faces that were obviously pre planned.
Mind you, the own goal was so blatant that Dundalk decided to make it look remotely serious by sending on Gary Haylock for the last few minutes. He looked a bit too lively, and interested, and no doubt wasn't playing along with the script.
That said, I don't think new striker Chris Freestone was informed of the devious plan. After previously playing in front of 55,000 at Old Trafford, the less than 550 crowd at Oriel must have seemed like a different universe. He didn't look too impressed by the acting performances of his teammates, who decided not to give him any service, just in case he ruined the show.
But all in all, it was a successful exercise. Never mind treating the supporters who paid in with contempt by putting in a pathetic, aimless, lifeless display, they will all understand when Dundalk go out and put on a blinding show in Croatia. This was a sacrifice that had to be made, to give the Croatians the impression that all they need to do is put out a reserve side, and they'll give these dog loving, kids on the pitch before the game, Irish hoofers a hammering. Hook, line AND sinker.
It was all planned, right ?
8th August
As you can see from above, the 2-0 loss tonight against Sligo was a pre meditated result, orchestrated by Dundalk in order to make Varteks believe that we really are as absolutely brutal as this performance suggested. They will go home to Croatia with absolutely nothing positive whatsoever about Dundalk to talk about, apart, perhaps, from this sub called Haylock who came on and got a good reception, and generally looked lively as the game went on. Maybe they might be slightly suspicious about that ...
Otherwise, Dundalk were rubbish - obviously the plan. Mark Webb was given slippery shoes, so he'd spend most of the night falling about just in case he didn't play along with the game, while Ross Darcy was allowed to make some decent challenges but obviously hasn't been allowed train, so his lack of fitness will stop him from performing. No doubt that will be sorted for Croatia. Chris Freestone, perhaps not aware of the devious plot, wasn't given any service whatsoever.
Anyway, for what it's worth, the Dundalk team who lay down and died, intentionally, to fool the Croatians, was
Connolly, Whyte, Brunton, Darcy, Melvin [McCrystal HT], Flanagan, Kavanagh [Malone], Ward [Haylock], Freestone, Hoey, Webb
NEW
STRIKER7th August
Dundalk have signed ex Middlesborough striker Chris Freestone for a month from Forest Green Rovers. Freestone, 31 next month, has also played with Northampton Town and Hartlepool United amongst others in the English lower divisions. He made numerous Premiership appearances during Bryan Robson's time in charge back in the mid nineties, playing on the Middlesborough side that included the likes of Ravanelli, Emerson and Juninho. He will make his debut in tomorrow night's First Division Cup clash with Sligo Rovers. Liam Dunne and Stuart Connolly, however, have both left the club.
Freestone was unveiled at Oriel Park last night, and will fill the void left by the currently injured Gary Haylock. During his time at Middlesborough, Freestone played in many Premiership clashes, with one of his career highlights being involved in an epic 3-3 draw with Manchester United at Old Trafford, a game in which he set up two Middlesborough goals. Freestone joined Northampton Town for £75,000 after leaving 'Boro and went on to play for several other clubs in the lower leagues, plagued by injury problems at his latest club, Shrewsbury Town. His arrival at Oriel Park wil no doubt give Dundalk much needed firepower in the forward department, which was clearly lacking at Tolka Park last week when due to injuries, Dundalk finished the game with no strikers on the field.
It was also announced tonight that midfielders Liam Dunne and Stuart Connolly have left the club. Disclipine problem Dunne, and midfielder Connolly have had many critics during their time at Oriel, and their departure will not surprise many. Connolly joined Dundalk on the virtue of strong central midfield performances for Athlone, but bizarrely, never once played in the position for Dundalk, instead playing on the left side of defence or midfield when fit, which wasn't often. Dunne has spent two full seasons at Oriel, starting off impressively before drastically losing form and his temper. His tendency for reckless challenges was making him a liability, and it is hardly surprising that his last full game for Dundalk against Dublin City ended with him being stupidly sent off after several ridiculous challenges while on a yellow card. Let's hope that Chris Freestone's spell at the club is slightly more successful
5th August
Dundalk may have bowed out of the FAI Cup on Tuesday, and also departed from the First Division Cup this weekend but finally there seems to be optimism about the season to come. After Summer upheaval, considerable unrest and concerns about the team's chances of gaining promotion, the two Cup games with Rovers have injected life and hope into the club again, with everyone rallying behind the cause. On Tuesday, there were positives to take from the game with Rovers. Fantastic travelling support, and a spirited display in the face of adversity, with Dundalk's options seriously reduced up front, with Gary Haylock still on the sidelines, and Martin Reilly going off with an injury after his strike partner Cormac Malone had earlier been substituted. Rovers may have went on to win, but with Haylock to return, Dundalk fans will now be expecting to lift silverware at the end of the season, in the form of the First Division Championship.
Commenting on games without being there is the preserve of armchair fans nationwide, so perhaps in summarising Tuesday's defeat you need look no further than the comments of Martin Murray and Des Denning on dundalkfc.com and the message left on Dundalk Talk on Wednesday which simply says, "Last night was an incredible experience, an epic match and a rollercoaster of emotion"
By all accounts, Dundalk held their own against Rovers for 120 minutes, and after going a goal down on 63 minutes, bravely equalised on 87 minutes courtesy of a brilliant strike from Martin Reilly. In extra time, it seemed like everything went on with McGuinness delighting his hecklers by being sent off, along with Bryan McCrystal. Alas, a Tony Grant goal put Rovers into the next round. Sure, it leaves a sour taste in the mouth to lose any game, especially such a big one but promotion is the goal, and Dundalk fans now know that with the return of Haylock and added depth with the additions of Darcy and Webb that they have a team more than capable of developing into a more stable unit than the last Dundalk side which played in Division One.
Dundalk, and in fact, most teams don't really care about the First Division Cup and with Galway also suffering a painful midweek FAI Cup defeat, progress in the competition was hardly paramount in the mind of both sides during their clash in the thankfully once off competition in Galway on Saturday evening. Dundalk fielded an experimental side, with debutant Mark Webb crossing for Chris Malone who put Martin Murray's men in front after 15 minutes. Alan Murphy equalised after half time for Galway, and the 1-1 scoreline puts an end to any lingering hope of Dundalk progressing to the final. You get the impression, that no-one really cares about that. In fact, many would be hard pressed to even give the league situation in the First Division Cup, and probably couldn't tell you who was in contention for the competition. Bigger fish to fry.
Croatia is now on the horizon, and Thursday's clash with Sligo Rovers will be looked on as no more than a send off for the big trip. The majority of Dundalk fans will get a first look at new signings Darcy and Webb in a game against a Sligo side, which to save you the bother of looking, is actually the team topping the First Division Cup Northern Section. Stopping teams from winning something is nothing new to Dundalk, and while the First Division Cup means nothing to Murray's men now, it's worth remembering that Dundalk have technically gone five games without a win. It would be nice to get back into the winning habit sooner rather than later, and keep the glorious defeats to a minimum.
29th July
Dundalk have made two additions to their first team squad, with defensive player Ross Darcy and midfielder cum striker Marc Webb joining the club. 24 year old Darcy, formerly of Spurs and Barnet has arrived after injuries plagued his career in England. Webb, brother of Bohemians defender Simon, arrives on a one month trial from Bohemians, aiming to impress manager Martin Murray. Neither are eligible for tomorrow's FAI Cup Second Round Replay with Shamrock Rovers at Tolka Park. Dundalk are likely to be unchanged for the game, after Thursday's impressive performance at Oriel Park.
Darcy would have joined Bohemians last Summer, if Roddy Collins had stayed in charge at Dalymount Park. However, when Collins departed, that planned move fell through. Capable of playing in defence and midfield, Darcy will add badly needed depth to the squad in that department. Webb can play on the left side of midfield, or up front and is a welcome addition to the squad in the absence of the injured Gary Haylock. Both will more than likely debut next Sunday against Galway in the First Division Cup, with Dundalk willing to experiment as their competitive participation in the competition is all but over.
25th July
Dundalk and Shamrock Rovers will meet again on Tuesday at Tolka Park to decide the FAI Cup Second Round tie, after tonight's game at Oriel Park finished in a 2-2 draw. Dundalk displayed a welcome return to form, with the return of several key players a crucial factor. Martin Reilly gave Dundalk the lead on 28 minutes, but against the run of play Shamrock Rovers scored a dubious penalty on 44, and after a spell of pressure took the lead on 65 minutes through Tony Grant. Dundalk battled hard, with the likes of Broughan and Lawless outstanding. However, it took a fumble from Tony O'Dowd after a 30 yard strike by the impressive David Ward to give Dundalk the equalising goal, and send the sides back to Tolka Park next Tuesday
25th July
With kickoff approaching, it is still uncertain what team Dundalk will be able to field against Shamrock Rovers tonight. As expected, Gary Haylock is definitely out, with Noel Melvin joining him on the sidelines after picking up a hamstring injury against Dublin City on Monday. John Flanagan and John Whyte have both overcome minor knocks, while the most positive news is that Donal Broughan is reportedly ok to play, thus solving Dundalk's central defensive dilemmas. Broughan will partner Bryan McCrystal in the centre of defence, with the pair being the only fit centre halves on Dundalk's books at the moment.
In midfield, injuries to David Hoey [groin] and Chris Lawless [ankle], added to Stuart Connolly's persistent hamstring trouble will leave Dundalk seriously short of options, if none of the three are fit to make a return. With Kavanagh assured of starting in the centre, and Ward on the left, it appears that Liam Dunne, and possibly young Paul Hoey will be the players to benefit if Hoey and Lawless do not make it. Cormac Malone and Martin Reilly, who struggled to gain familiarity with each other on Monday evening, will start up front again. Mick Dempsey will probably hold on to the number one spot.
On the plus side, James Keddy is set to miss out for Rovers. Keddy is still plagued by the hamstring problem which forced him to miss the Cup final, aggravating the injury in his first competitive game for Rovers. Stephen McGuinness will be in action though, and can prepare for a rough ride from the terraces.
In an added twist, John McDermott makes his return to refereeing tonight, after giving dodg decisions in favour of Rovers in a Cup tie last year !
If Dunne and Connolly do figure tonight, it is likely to be one of their last games for the club. The Dundalk board released a statement on Tuesday saying Martin Murray will have to change the team personnel, after some disappointing early season performances. Indications are, that with new players coming in, the likes of Dunne and Connolly will have to make way. Let's just hope that if they leave, Dundalk will still be in the FAI Cup at the time.
Kickoff tonight is 7:45pm
23rd July
Dundalk's interest in the First Division Cup may have al but ended on Monday night against Dublin City, but it's fair to say most minds were already on Thursday's FAI Cup Second Round game with Shamrock Rovers. After the defeat to Dublin City, the prognosis doesn't look too good with further injuries added to the already lengthening list of walking wounded. One thing is for sure, the team that starts against Rovers will be a pale shadow of the one which triumphed in the 4-0 semi final last March.
The game against Dublin City started badly, before a ball had been kicked. Donal Broughan injured himself in the warm up, and is another added to the doubtful list for Thursday. David Hoey and Chris Lawless, two more members of the Cup winning team, and inspirational figures in the 4-0 semi final win also missed out with injury, and are also doubtful for Thursday. With Gary Haylock definitely out, things were looking bleak for Dundalk. Murray's men still dominated the first half, and played some brilliant football at times. If Reilly, returning up front after injury, had been a little sharper and Cormac Malone had shown more composure then the game would have been over by half time. At time, the football was wonderful, with the best move of the match almost leading to a John Flanagan goal midway through the first forty five. Flanagan was also returned from injury, and impressed.
In the second half, things went downhill with Noel Melvin injuring himself, leaving Bryan McCrystal as the only fit Dundalk centre half available. Flanagan dropped back to centre half, with Paul Hoey coming on to replace him on the right side of midfield. Then, Liam Dunne, already on a yellow hacked down a Dublin City opponent and received his second yellow card. It was the third time he'd committed a serious foul since getting a yellow card, and the referee really had given him enough chances. After that, Dublin City upped the ante, and despite some fine stops from Mick Dempsey, and a few brave blocks from the excellent Robbie Brunton, Dundalk could not hold out. Dave Campbell eventually forced home the winner on 81 minutes, heading home from close range. With only Cormac Malone up front, Dundalk never looked like scoring, and the eventual 1-0 scoreline was inevitable.
That said, the most interesting moment during the game was the second the Dundalk fans realised Stephen McGuinness was in the ground. After several chants of Judas, and "McGuinness is a traitor", he can have no illusions about what sort of reception he will get on Thursday night. If the fans had looked closer, they would have realised that James Keddy was also there. David Crawley was also watching the game, although he made sure to keep his presence slightly more discreet. With Haylock, Broughan, Crawley, McGuinness and Keddy all behind one goal, it served a cruel reminder as to what the Summer has done to our club. That said, one of the few moments of comedy was Broughan's reaction, standing alongside McGuinness, when the Dundalk fans started to vent their anger towards the new Rovers centre half. Broughan discreetly slipped away from McGuinness at the time, leaving his Cup final partner alone to take the flak.
That's about the only thing worth laughing about ahead of Thursday. With Haylock out, and Hoey, Lawless, Broughan and Melvin all injured, added to David Ward being in bad form, and Liam Dunne getting his game despite his obvious mental defficiencies it's hardly a cause for optimism. If Broughan and Melvin miss out, then who will partner the relatively inexperienced Bryan McCrystal, now a vital member of the team, in central defence ? Flanagan played well there, but if he drops back in then Dundalk will be seriously short of numbers in midfield, and will have to play possibly both Liam Dunne and Paul Hoey. Oriel Web wonders why Stuart Connolly, who came to the club on the back of excellent central midfield performances for Athlone, hasn't been given a chance in this position. Maybe Thursday should be the time, if worst comes to worst, and Flanagan has to revert to central defence. He's not as much a disclipinary hazard as Liam Dunne is at the moment. A lot will depend on Ciaran Kavanagh, who on Thursday will be the most important Dundalk player on the pitch, if the night is to go well.
It's going to be passionate, and it's going to be fiery, and there is certaintly no love lost. Let's just hope we have a team to take the field.
22nd July
Dundalk travel to Tolka Park tonight, to face Dublin City in the third game of the First Division Cup Northern Section. After the loss against Finn Harps, a win is essential if Dundalk are to retain any chance of winning the competition. However, with an eye to this week's Cup game against Shamrock Rovers, Dundalk will be hoping to avoid further injury problems. Donal Broughan, returning from suspension, and John Flanagan, back from injury, return to the first team squad for this game, giving Martin Murray a few new options. After the performance against Finn Harps, a change can only be for the better. Dundalk will be looking to use this game as a confidence booster ahead of the Rovers game. Kickoff is 7:45pm
15th July
It's hard to get your head around it, but common sense, due to the distribution of European places dictates that there will be two FAI Cups in the year of 2002. The second final in October is unlikely to be able to recreate the atmosphere of the first one in April, with weather conditions a principal factor, and there's no doubt that the Cup being played out as such a bizarre time of the year will seem somewhat surreal. However, that is unlikely to detract from the experience for the teams going well, with the Cup having it's unique attraction.
Therefore, it may seem strange, but there is no doubt there will be more urgency and a little more spring in the step around Oriel Park tomorrow, as the Cup buzz again hits Oriel. Shamrock Rovers are coming to town again, seeking revenge. Those with memories fresh of the last meeting will no doubt come back out in force again. Financially, and also morale wise, the game set to be played on the week ending 28th July is bound to give the club the wake up call, for want of a better term, it so badly needs.
As if a game between Dundalk and Rovers needs any more spice, you'll have the extra element added to the game by the return to Oriel Park of Stephen McGuinness and James Keddy. Both played starring roles in the 4-0 win for Dundalk back in April, but will now be lining out under new Rovers manager Liam Buckley. If Rovers had won on that memorable night in Oriel, ex manager Richardson could still be in charge at Rovers, and Buckley could be preparing his Athlone side for a Division One game. Who knows where McGuinness and Keddy would have been ? Circumstance, however, has brought us to this most intriguing of Cup matches.
What kind of reception will McGuinness and Keddy get ? Every Dundalk fan has his own mind, and is capable of making their mind up for themselves. All I can say is that neither player handled their departure particularly well, McGuinness by sending misleading messages about his intentions into the press, and Keddy by throwing a mini tantrum on the Player Of The Year night when asked to sign a jersey which the whole team had signed. It's bound to be passionate.
Crowd wise, Rovers fans will be hoping to actually get ninety minutes of the match this time around. They will go into the game as favourites, again, but a lot of their confidence will depend on the fitness, or lack thereof, of one man. Gary Haylock. Haylock is reportedly facing another three weeks on the sidelines, which would rule him out of the match with Rovers. However, no one at the club could have anticipated such a tie. The big match build up could inspire Haylock to quicken his recovery. The game takes place in less than two weeks time, and Dundalk will be praying for a recovery from Gary.
One thing is for sure. With the First Division Cup failing to catch the imagination, there was still a distinctly pre season feel around Oriel. No longer, will this be the case. The season has now properly started. Dundalk have a Cup to defend, and while the odds are stacked against them, the likes of Reilly, Flanagan and Broughan will be itching to get back into first team contention as soon as possible. A tough draw, very much so. But the best thing that could have happened to the club at this stage in time ? Definitely. Here we go, again
11th July
Cup victory ? What Cup victory. That's a question a lot of Dundalk fans must have been asking themselves tonight, as a disorientated Dundalk side went down tamely 2-1 to Finn Harps. With only five of the Cup winning side starting on the night, in a competition that warrants little respect in the eyes of most fans, it was never going to be a return to the glorious form towards the end of 2001/2. However, it was spectacularly worse than you could have expected, with few, if any Dundalk players taking any credit from their performance.
Harps came with a largely full strength side, and the one consolation is that they are not very good. If they are Dundalk's nearest rivals for promotion, then there's every chance that with a full strength side, Dundalk can comfortably return to the top flight at the first attempt. That might be too sweeping a statement, however, as Harps were hardly stretched to show their full ability by a Dundalk side who infuriatingly sent in long balls to a small side.
Dundalk made one change from the side which defeated Monaghan 1-0 last week with Noel Melvin replacing Chris Malone. John Whyte reverted to right back, with Melvin in the centre alongside McCrystal. Both Melvin and Whyte had atrocious games. It was Harps veteran player-manager Johnathan Speake who stole the show, and he grabbed his first goal on ten minutes after a good Harps move started by Neil Lloyd. Chris Lawless, playing in behind David Ward in a 4-5-1 formation headed home before half time, flicking a Melvin cross past Harps keeper Alan Young. Unfortunately, Lawless injured himself in the process and limped off shortly afterwards. Nevertheless, Dundalk enjoyed their best spell between the equalising goal and half time as an impressive David Hoey shone. The Harps defence looked very shaky during this period, and a couple of farcical goal mouth scrambles took place. The best chance fell to Bryan McCrystal, who fired wide when unmarked in the penalty area, after a corner from Ciaran Kavanagh.
After the break, Dundalk played a 4-4-2 formation with sub Cormac Malone, who replaced Lawless, playing alongside Ward up front. Malone looked livelier than Ward, but the final product was poor. Ward was shockingly poor, embarassing those who expressed anger at his dismissal to Newry last November. The second goal from Harps typified the night for Dundalk. An aimless long ball from Harps towards Speake seemed to have yielded little result, until goalkeeper John Connolly raced from his line unnecessarily. Melvin, the Dundalk defender tracking the ball momentarily lost concentration and his header back was weak. Speake nipped in to clip the ball between the pair and give Harps the lead. A humiliating experience for the defender, and the goalkeeper. After that, Dundalk introduced John Sharkey for the desperately poor Stuart Connolly. With Sharkey, Dunne and Kavanagh all in a line, Dundalk had a midget like midfield. So small, that defenders Brunton, and the otherwise impressive McCrystal obviously didn't see them when looking up, thus explaining the pointless hoofing of the ball towards Malone and Ward. Dundalk didn't look like creating a chance, and when the opportunity opened up, the shot was wasted. A weak, dreary and drab second half performance from Dundalk yielded the return it deserved - absolutely nothing.
It's ten days until the game with Dublin City. Thankfully Broughan will be back, and hopefully it's not too long before the likes of Haylock, Reilly and Flanagan return. We bloody need them.
Team : Connolly 5 Whyte 4 Brunton 5 Melvin 4 McCrystal 6 Dunne 5 Kavanagh 5 Hoey 7 Ward 4 Lawless 7 Connolly 4, SUBS Malone 5 for Lawless, Sharkey 5 for Connolly
11th July
Dundalk play their first competitive home game of the season in Oriel Park tonight, when Finn Harps visit for a First Division Cup tie. Both sides won their first games in the round robin format last weekend, with Finn Harps defeating Dublin City 2-1 in Ballybofey.
Harps finished second, and eventually lost the playoff, in Division One last season. They are second favourites, behind Dundalk, to win promotion back to the top flight so the game will provide early signals as to what fans of both clubs can expect in the season ahead.
Dundalk will still be without strikers Gary Haylock and Martin Reilly however. John Flanagan and Noel Melvin are also injured, and it remains to be seen if they will be passed fit to play. John Whyte may have to continue in the role of makeshift centre back, a clear sign of how depleted Dundalk are. Manager Murray may well have to play with a 4-5-1 formation, with David Ward again ploughing a lone furrow up front.
Kickoff is 7:45pm, as the Summer football experiment gets it's first test in Dundalk
8th July
Dundalk opened the 2002 season on Saturday with a 1-0 win over Monaghan United in the First Division Cup at Century Homes Park. Dundalk struggled to get a hold on the game, but a David Hoey strike on 70 minutes was enough to give Martin Murray's side a morale boosting victory with a depleted squad. Surprisingly, Stuart Connolly played in the match, when many presumed his days at the club were over.
Wins over Monaghan at the venue have been all too scarce in recent years, so the result is a heartening one for Dundalk fans, especially in the absence of first team players, Haylock, Reilly, Flanagan, Broughan and Melvin. Dundalk only fielded one recognised centre back in the back four, that being Bryan McCrystal with Chris Malone returning to the first team after a spell with Quay Celtic. Dundalk played with five in midfield, and David Ward on his own up front. John Whyte filled in at centre half. Hoey, who has caught the eye in pre season friendlies, capped a fine performance with the winning goal, heading home with twenty minutes remaining.
Team : John Connolly, Chris Malone, John Whyte, Brian McCrystal, Robbie Brunton, Chris Lawless, Liam Dunne, Ciaran Kavanagh, David Hoey, Stuart Connolly (Paul Hoey 75],David Ward
Up next for Dundalk are Finn Harps on Thursday night in Oriel Park. It will be a stern test for the side, with Finn Harps having most of the side which finished second last season in the First Division. They started their campaign with a 2-1 win over Dublin City on Saturday evening. The sides last met in the FAI Cup quarter finals in February, with Dundalk eventually coming through. However, a clear sign of how much things have changed since then is by looking at the Dundalk hero on that night : both goals came from James Keddy.
4th July
After a troubled Summer at Oriel, following on from the FAI Cup final hysteria, Dundalk's season starts off in low key manner on Saturday evening. The beloved Century Homes Park, the ground where our relegation was confirmed is the venue for Dundalk's first match in the newly created First Division Cup, Northern Section. While there is a 15,000 euro prize for the winner, Dundalk have freely admitted that they are thankful this is not a League match, given the dearth in squad members at this moment in time.
The lack of strikers is an immediately pressing problem, with Dundalk likely to play 4-5-1 with David Ward as the lone striker. Gary Haylock and Martin Reilly are sidelined by injury, while Cormac Malone is on holidays, an indication that Summer soccer and part time players aren't exactly well suited. Paul Hoey could be in line for a first competitive appearance, possibly from the substitutes bench. Bryan McCrystal will get his chance in the heart of defence, with these games crucial for players such as McCrystal and Hoey hoping to establish themselves as prominent first team squad members. Monaghan have had a relatively quiet Summer, with their most notable acquistion the return of diminutative striker Paul Smyth from the USA. Kick off is 7:30pm. Dundalk will be looking to their young players to shine in the absence of more senior colleagues. A tough task awaits.
In another extremely interesting development, the Eircom League clubs have all approved a plan by the FAI to inject a little more spice into the end of the eircom League season. Instead of a simple promotion/relegation playoff, two other sides in the enlarged Division One will have a chance to play off for promotion. At the end of the season, the second last team in the Premier Division will meet the fourth placed team in Division One in a two legged tie. The second and third placed teams in Division One will also play each other over two legs. The two sides to emerge from those ties will meet each other in the playoff final for the final place in the Premier Division. The plan has gained widespread support, with the clubs welcoming the chance of more revenue. It also allays the fear of those who felt that with twelve teams in Division One, a lot of sides would find their season effectively over by the halfway stage. Going by the evidence of recent years, it will be extremely close in Division One and for most sides will feel a top four place is achievable. It will increase interest in the final weeks of the season, and is sure to be financially well received
UEFA have blocked the proposed switch in the order of the UEFA Cup tie between Dundalk and FC Varteks of Croatia. Originally, Dundalk were meant to travel to Croatia on 15th August, with a return leg in Tolka two weeks later but a deal had been agreed between the sides to play the first leg in Dublin on either the 13th or 14th of August, and the second leg in Varteks on the 29th. UEFA have blocked that switch, and the tie will go ahead as arranged.
With the dates finally confirmed, Dundalk have announced their travel package for the trip. If the numbers can be found, Dundalk will charter a special plane to fly straight to Croatia on the Monday of the tie. The return flight will be directly after the game. The cost will be 650 euro per person.
30th June
Dundalk's European tie with Croatian side FC Varteks looks set to be switched, with the first leg now set to take place in Tolka Park on Tuesday 13th August. The second leg will now take place in Croatia on the 29th August. This is a move by the club to ensure that the best financial result possible is secured from the tie. Sad to say it, but this move clearly shows that Dundalk expect a comprehensive defeat by Varteks. Playing the first leg at home ensures that all the hype surrounding the tie and a good crowd will not be lost. It would be significantly harder to drum up support the second leg at home if Dundalk were trying to come back from an unassailable margin. The move might make financial sense, but it gives a distinct advantage in every sense to Varteks before the first ball is kicked.
The home tie will take place on Tuesday 13th August because Shamrock Rovers are playing their UEFA Cup tie against Swedish opposition in the Drumcondra venue on the set date of Thursday 15th August. Some have labelled the move as short sighted. Some say it makes business sense. Bohemians did the same thing against Kaiserslautern in the UEFA Cup a few years back and regretted it in the aftermath when they realised the tie was winnable. Dundalk will hope that their lack of faith in the playing staff doesn't backfire in the same manner.
In the most positive move of the season so far, Dundalk have signed former Irish schools international Ashley White from Monaghan United. White gained Premier Division experience last year for Monaghan, playing against Dundalk on several occasions. The 19 year old actually represented Dundalk in the Milk Cup at schoolboy level before going on to play for Belvedere in Dublin. He returned to his native Monaghan in 2001, and the red haired defender performed quite well for the Mons in the circumstances last season. White is most comfortable in the centre of defence but played most of his football for Monaghan at right back.
In the recent pre season friendlies against UCD and Aer Rianta, local youngster Paul Hoey has made an impact, scoring against UCD in a 3-2 loss and also performing well in the 8-0 thrashing of Aer Rianta which saw both Ciaran Kavanagh and David Hoey score hattricks.
Alan Finnegan, ex St Kevins Boys and Shels was a trialist in both games and didn't fare quite as well while Drogheda outcast Olan Flanagan has also been on the fringes of the side in both games. Significantly, Bryan McCrystal played both games and his recovery from serious injury appears to be almost complete.
25th June
Dundalk's long sponsorship deal with Harp Lager has ended, with the slightly more low key Dundalk Cabs the new official sponsors of the club. Many thought that after the Cup final success a more lucrative deal could have been attracted, but that is obviously not the case. While not wishing to knock anyone who puts any kind of money into the club, you only need compare with Drogheda who have signed what looks an extremely rewarding sponsorship deal with phone giants o2.
21st June
Dundalk face a long UEFA Cup journey in August, after todays draw pitted Martin Murray's side against crack Croatian outfit FC Varteks. Based in the North of Croatia in the extremely cultural city of Varazdin, Varteks are a decent side who knocked Aston Villa out of the UEFA Cup last season. With the Cup final squad, it would have been a hard match but with the depleted First Division side, Dundalk face an extremely difficult first leg task in Croatia. All at the club will be hoping there is something to play for come the second leg in Dublin, or else the European adventure could end up developing into a financial disaster.
Dundalk knew beforehand that they would face either HJK Helsinki, AIK Solna, Aberdeen or Varteks and, in truth, the latter named was probably the worst case scenario for the club in terms of cost, and also, in terms of the difficulty of opposition. Varteks have supplied several internationals over the years, and don't tend to slip up at the first hurdle. Last year, they progressed to the second round of the competition, slipping up to lose 5-1 in Brondby after winning the first leg 3-1 at home. It shows they do concede goals, but to put it in perspective, Brondby comfortably defeated Shelbourne 5-0 in the previous round. Make no mistake about it, Dundalk face a mammoth task to even make sure that the second leg is competitive.
Travel wise, Dundalk fans who post Cup final made promises they would travel to Europe will now face a test of will to see if they will follow through with their euphoria filled promises. Croatia, unfortunately, has a stigma of war associated with it that Dundalk fans really should not fall into, especially given our history and often misinterpreted reputation across Europe. Croatia, like Ireland, is perfectly safe and the city of Varazdin appears to be one of the most beautiful in Croatia. It is nicknamed "Little Vienna", and is a city steeped in history, with references found to it back as far as the 12th century. It plays hosts to many balls, classical concerts and world famous festivals with sites on the city listing baroque evenings as one of Varteks principal attractions. It is also the student home of Croatia, with students from all over the country studying in the town which is in North Croatia, near the Slovenian border.
More to follow on our Croatian opponents as soon as possible.....
In a pre season friendly last night, Dundalk performed adequately but still went down 3-2 to UCD
17th June
While the country has been gripped by World Cup fever, things at Dundalk Football Club have sadly been going in the wrong direction. People obviously thought that after the Cup final win, the future would be filled with great days. Promotion would be easily secured with a quality side, and the UEFA Cup ties would bring publicity and a feel good factor. Just keep that momentum going throughout the Summer and we would be fine. Sadly, life doesn't always work out like that.
At the moment, spirits in the club are at an all time low. It doesn't seem as though everyone is pulling in the right direction. Are the board doing more than the Supporters Club ? Are the Supporters Club doing more than the Travel Club ? Who cares ? What about the best thing for the club ?
David Crawley is off to Shels, and his likely replacement is Robbie Brunton. A player who has spent the last two seasons with whipping boys Kilkenny and Monaghan. A First Division player, at a First Division club. No more of this cruising back up nonsense. This season will be a struggle.
David Crawley lifted the Cup in April. It seems like years ago. That could turn out to be his last game for his hometown club, the club that he spoke of his love for. Players say that kind of stuff a lot though. Realistically, David Crawley needs money to live, and he can get more of it in Shelbourne. Not an issue of playing Premier Division football or any of that guff. Not an issue of the club not doing enough to keep him, or any strife with the managers. Just an issue of getting more money. Hard to blame him, but on the other hand, hard to commend him. Day by day, the Cup final tape becomes all the more unwatchable. In fact, speaking for myself, I actually cannot watch it anymore. Every image is littered with inconsistencies.
The celebrations of McGuinness, soon to leave. The sympathy for Keddy, who afterwards at the Player Of The Year awards registered his disgust at having to sign a shirt, and then left early because "he didn't want to stay around this f*ckin place any longer". Crawley kissing the crest. Other incidents like that provoke similar reactions. Sorry, but the Cup final tape will now be collecting dust for quite a while. The crowd shots are the only salvation, the only hope. It is those people that the club needs more than any at this time.
Let's cut the crap here. It seems that a public meeting held a few weeks back failed to fully explain what the board was trying to say. Dundalk are financially screwed. There is no point lying about it, because it is true. Those angry at the player losses must be made aware that keeping the remaining players is a financial burden that Dundalk can barely afford. Some high earners had to go. It must be said though, that seeing the club are having problems, why did we sign another keeper ?
At the moment, the club has no income. A share relaunch is badly needed, and will doubtless happen in the coming weeks. The lack of a wealthy benefactor to put his hand in his pocket to solve short term problems is noted. In the past this wouldn't have been a problem as everyone would have grouped together and organised something to make money, but somewhere, something has gone badly wrong. The enthusiasm is gone. The co-op is badly struggling. The board is short of a full quota and it shows as certain targets have not been reached.
A shirt sponsorship deal is yet to be secured. Surely, after the Cup final success and the promise of European football it would be a lucrative deal for some people. Why hasn't anything been done on the matter ? Who was assigned the task of looking after it ? Why aren't they doing their job properly ? Serious questions to be asked.
Of course, the argument some people will offer is that, if things are so bad, do something about it yourself. Sadly, life isn't always that easy. People have jobs, people have commitments and cannot dedicate themselves to a task that involves so much work. The accessibility of the club is, many say, it's biggest strength. You can walk into Oriel Park tomorrow and offer to join the board and there's a good chance you'll be accepted. A strength, some say, but in many ways the club's biggest weakness. This is supposed to be a club with some sense of professionalism, and you need people who are not only willing to do the task, but also damn bloody good at it. It doesn't guarantee quality.
Des Denning, Frank Mullen, Frank Keating and others at the club have devoted themselves to the job, and performed well but we need more people of their calibre, not hangers on. Are they out there ? If not, how can the co-op survive ?
Grim thoughts maybe, but an illustration that at this time the last thing we need is the supporters going nuts. It's hard to argue with the discontented though. For the fan who just wants to pay in and get value for money,the loss of some of the better players in apparent clouds of secrecy is unacceptable. The way the exodus has been handled has been largely unsatisfactory, but as someone rightly pointed out recently, "you can't expect the club to release a statement saying Crawley's cheques weren't bouncing". The mere implication in an official statement would be barmy PR. Perhaps though, the situation might have been better handled.
What we don't need now is fan apathy. Some are now blaming the manager, which would be wrong. This is a situation where support is badly needed, even if it is slightly embarrassing to have to weigh in behind another, "grin and bear it, it's for the good of the club" style campaign. As it stands, everyone is annoyed. The players seem to have no idea what is going on, the board is not happy, the various supporters clubs and other groups aren't happy, the last thing we need is revolt from the heart of the club : the supporters. Hopefully the UEFA Cup draw will get people's minds back on the club. Realise what an honour it is to play in Europe and somehow inject some kind of spirit back into the club that will lift everyone. By the sounds of it, it is badly needed. Financially, a bad UEFA Cup draw would be a disaster.
Of course, it's unrealistic to expect people not to be angry about what is happening. I'm angry, and every other fan I know is extremely frustrated and sickened by what is happening, but more discontent is not what is needed. Internally, I'm sure, the club has issues which it needs to sort out but the last thing we need is everyone proportioning blame to everyone else and coming along to Oriel Park screaming stuff saying that the likes of Crawley and Prizeman and others should never have been let go. Depressing circumstances made the exits inevitable.
The greater good of the club is being ignored. Try and support the pre season friendlies, try and support the club if any events are being held in Oriel Park. Simple things such as this will make things better. It's easier to do a good job when there's money in the bank.
There's plenty going wrong at Oriel Park at the moment, no question about that. However, with a few weeks to go to the start of the season we need some positive energy. At the moment, as stated earlier, the club has absolutely no regular income. Football can't come any quicker. Already, the club is taking a massive gamble in maintaining some of the present squad in order to gain promotion. It's a gamble that will need everyone's support. Sadly, not for the first time, and not an exaggeration, the future of the club is at stake.
11th June
Rumours are persisting that club captain, David Crawley could be on his way to Shelbourne. The clubs longest serving player, who only two months ago lifted the FAI Cup, could be on his way to Tolka Park for fee in the region of €25,000 which could also include free use of Tolka Park for the UEFA Cup home match. The prospect of playing in that competition with such a depleted team is not exactly one to look forward to. Dundalk fans will hope Crawley does not leave, but if he does, it will mean another of the Cup winning side has been sold. Even more poignant is the fact that at the time Crawley talked of his pride at being the first local man to lift the Cup for fifty years. However, financial problems may be dictating things at the moment with preparations for the new season not exactly going to plan.
Sources are suggesting that the player first became alarmed when a cheque for his wages bounced, a development which greatly frustrated the player. It now seems that financial problems may be the reason for the speculation about his future, with Shelbourne reportedly expressing an interest after their two left backs from this season, Peter Hutton and Johnathan Minnock left the club. A fee for €25,000 and free use of Tolka Park for the UEFA Cup game has been discussed, although it has been mooted that Dundalk were looking for a figure in the region of €70,000.
After the departures of Keddy, McGuinness, Prizeman, Callaghan, McArdle, Connolly and others, the only signing Dundalk have made is that of a goalkeeper. David Ward has also returned to the club, but it is not ideal preparation for an important season to get rid of half your squad. Martin Murray, on holidays in Portugal has told the Dundalk Democrat that he is hoping to sign two players he had while at Crusaders, a left sided midfielder and a midfielder cum striker but for the moment, moves do not appear to be imminent.
The introduction of a new First Division Cup means the League campaign won't start until August, but if the club are in finanical dire straits then the €15,000 prize for the new Cup which starts in July will certainly come in handy. The UEFA Cup draw on 21st June will also open new avenues. The fact remains though, that a European campaign can have a damaging effect if it goes badly wrong. When Bray won the Cup and went down, they didn't lose any of their players ahead of their European tie. Dundalk have lost one side of it's team, and a crucial central defender. Playing two goalkeepers won't stop the rot.
Let's hope the Crawley situation is sorted out, and some kind of stability is restored. With only a few weeks until the first game, the playing staff is in disarray. We can't live off our FAI Cup win forever, we have to build on it.
19th May
Johnathan Prizeman and Stuart Connolly, two signings from last Summer will not be playing for Dundalk in the coming season. Prizeman and manager Martin Murray had always enjoyed a tempestuous relationship, despite claims by the latter that no friction existed. However, Murray confirmed on Tuesday night last that disclipine problems involving the player have led to his departure.
Prizeman was Dundalk's best player in the early part of the season, but was consistently substituted by manager Murray who eventually dropped him after Christmas when it became clear all was not well between the pair. At one stage of the season, after constant barracking over the players exclusion Murray ordered the player out of a post match shower to stage an impromptu press conference with the local hacks in which the player stated there was no problem between himself and the manager.
Connolly spent the best part of the season on the treatment table, and his constant injuries became a source of ridicule throughout the season. Connolly did not start one single game in central midfield, the position in which he excelled for Athlone last season - impressing Murray in the process.
Prizeman and Connolly are the sixth and seventh squad members to be leaving, with Cormac McArdle taking up the offer of a four year scholarship in America. McArdle was on the fringes of the squad, and played the last few minutes of the FAI Cup Final.
Stability is not exactly in place as many would have preferred, with rumours suggesting the players themselves have no idea who is coming or going
The blow of relegation is really beginning to hit home, as it has transpired that the drop to First Division means Dundalk will no longer be able to hold onto start midfielder James Keddy. Player of the season Keddy came to prominence in the second half of the season, and was unfortunately injured for the Cup final glory. Keddy has always stated that Division One football does not appeal to him, and now looks set to join Shamrock Rovers.
It is a massive blow for Dundalk fans, still reeling from the decision of Stephen McGuinness to join the same club. However, it was slightly more inevitable that Keddy would leave given the fact he was slightly more straight down the line about his intentions. The sunny glorious day at Tolka Park last month couldn't seem any further away at this point.
One signing has been made, however, with Dundalk signing Bohemians goalkeeper Mick Dempsey. The 26 year old netminder has been at Bohs since he was a teenager, and has been in and out of the side during his seven years at the Phibsboro club. He finished the season as second string at Bohs. He certainly didn't do his case for regular inclusion any favours with a series of mistakes in games against Dundalk this season. However, some Bohs fans believe his form in the 1998/99 season saved Bohs from automatic relegation, so it would be improper to judge a goalkeeper on one or two bad performances.
With the loss of McGuinness and Keddy, it could be argued that players in their respective positions are more urgent requirements, but at least it's not all one way traffic out of Oriel.
Dempsey will compete for the number 1 spot with John Connolly next season.
5th May
Less than a year after arriving at the club with great optimism, Stephen McGuinness is on his way to a new club.
The centre half will be playing his football at Shamrock Rovers next season, and will not miss out on European football as they have also qualified for the UEFA Cup. McGuinness took time to settle in at Dundalk after his Summer move, and endured some abuse from the terraces. Eventually, he won most of the fans over with a wonderful late season burst of form aided by a magnificent Cup final display. Sadly, that was a last hurrah and not a sign that he was prepared to assist in taking this club back to where it belongs.
He joins his former manager Liam Buckley at Rovers, a manager he deeply respects and prefers playing three at the back. This is a formation more suited to McGuinness, and was the position he played in during his two title wins at Pats.
McGuinness is a Premier player, and you can see his reasons for joining Rovers. It's understandable, but also painful. After all his promises, there is a sense of unfinished business which some people will find very hard to forget.
Arron Callaghan and John Ryan have also left the club. Callaghan has joined Longford as first team coach, a more senior role to his position at Oriel where he shares that duty with Frank O'Neill, plus Ollie Ralph and Tommy McConville.
Ryan has joined new First Division side, Kildare County FC. Dermot Keely is basically building that side from scratch, and hopes that the experience of Ryan will be a help in the side's debut season in the League.
It's not all players departing, as Martin Murray is looking to add to the squad. The return of David Ward from Newry has been confirmed, while Murray is looking at Bohs' keeper Mick Dempsey. After a few poor displays against Dundalk this season, it seems ironic that Dundalk are after Dempsey but Murray obviously feels he needs a keeper to provide competition to John Connolly. Cup final hero Connolly is under contract until the end of the upcoming season, so a move for him appears unlikely. Perhaps another centre half is needed, as opposed to a goalkeeper.
James Keddy's future will be sorted out this week. Keddy may well opt to follow McGuinness to Rovers, and several other clubs have expressed an interested in the Player Of The Year. However, Dundalk are trying to persuade him to stay at Oriel, although the club are believed to have lined up an alternative in that position should he choose to leave.
29th April
Gary Haylock will lead the line for Dundalk in the First Division next season, but it remains to be seen if star players such as James Keddy and Stephen McGuinness will be involved in the promotion race which begins in July.
Haylock has confirmed he will be staying at Oriel Park, despite interest from several Northern clubs but the futures of James Keddy and Stephen McGuinness remain in doubt. A club statement this week suggests that McGuinness will be staying, but the player has reportedly not been told if he is wanted yet. He is under contract until the end of next season, but had a get out clause in the case of relegation. It is now up to the player to choose if he wishes to exercise that clause, with interest from Shamrock Rovers and Bray offering a Premier Division alternative. Were it not for the carrot of European football, both players would surely be gone but that complicates matters and increases the chance of McGuinness staying.
Keddy, however, seems likely to leave. He has expressed an intention to play in the top flight next season, at this particular stage of his career. Shamrock Rovers, Derry and Longford are all leading the race and the move to Dublin based Shamrock Rovers would more than likely be the most attractive to the player. Liam Buckley has publicly expressed his desire to bring Keddy to the club, along with McGuinness, and the skilful left winger also has the get out clause in his contract which makes him free to leave.
Dundalk are expecting to finalise the futures of both players this week, with the Democrat reporting that Dundalk have a left wing alternative in mind should Keddy decide to leave. In other player news, rumours are circulating which suggest that Noel Melvin will not be returning for the current season. The travel aspect of Division One forced his retirement in the first place, and a return to those long days on the road is believed to be a factor in Melvin considering packing it in again.
David Ward and David Martin could be returning to the club after loan spells with Newry. Ward was famously ousted from the first team set up back in October, and many felt a return was unlikely. His time with Newry is now up, and the Blackrock striker finds his career at a crossroads. His return to the first team setup would be welcomed by many who feel he was unlucky to be forced out in the first place.
The Division One fixtures were decided at the League AGM yesterday, with the teams set to play 22 games in the shortened July-December season. That will involve playing each side home and away once. Dundalk will open their campaign at home to Limerick, with the FAI Cup holders meeting the League Cup holders. Just three weeks after the Cup final win, it is remarkable to believe that the new season is just a little over eight weeks away.
14th April
James Keddy was named Dundalk's Player Of The Season last night in Oriel Park. In a poll conducted amongst the clubs supporters, Kavanagh just came out on top.
Keddy missed the FAI Cup Final win over Bohs due to injury, but played a vital part in the run to the final, scoring a goal against Rovers in the semi and more crucially, both goals in the win away to Finn Harps in the quarter final replay. Keddy had a decent League campaign as well, with the highlight being his injury time winner in Bray. Let's hope the award win might encourage him to hang around at the club for next season
Keddy took the Dublin Branch of Dundalk Supporters Club award, Player Of The Year while Ciaran Kavanagh also took the Travel Club award for best player away from home after a successful first season with his hometown club.
Martin Murray will remain manager of Dundalk for next season, after steering the club to Cup success. Des Denning stood by his manager in turbulent times, when most of the clubs' fans wanted him out but the chairman has been rewarded for his patience and after a board meeting on Wednesday announced Murray would stay in charge for a third consecutive season.
Continuity is badly needed at the club, with a short and crucial First Division campaign ahead, plus the UEFA Cup. The club are also keen to keep together the Cup winning squad, and the safety of Murrays position will go some way to ensuring the big names stay at the club. The "Big Three" players, Gary Haylock, Stephen McGuinnness and James Keddy have been subject of much discussion.
Haylock looks certain to stay, while McGuinness is set to do likewise - the defender is awaiting an offer from the club. There is an element of doubt over Keddy, with Longford reportedly interested but hopefully the incentive of European football will be enough to keep the talented left midfielder at the club.
While the top half of the table has been dominated by talk of registration errors and points deductions, Dundalk have basically been removed from the whole situation. However, Dundalk are set to be directly involved should latest allegations regarding player ineligibility prove true.
Various reports are suggesting that Longford Town could be facing a thirty point deduction due to fielding an ineligible player several times throughout the season. Longford, and indeed, Shamrock Rovers could face relegation if they are deducted the points tally that has been mooted in some quarters. 'Rovers are reported to have played an ineligible player the whole season, which would result in a massive points deduction. Should the League press through with those punishments, Dundalk would, under the revised League table, stay in the Premier Division.
Rumours suggest that Dundalk are not exactly in favour of this course of action, and would prefer both Dundalk and Longford to stay in the top flight, instead using this saga as an excuse for the League to rethink their controversial plan to change the number of teams in the Premier Division from twelve to ten.
This is very much a story at an embryonic stage,with another newspaper report today suggesting that ALL clubs have registrational errors. More details are expected to break over the coming week, with League commissioner Roy Dooney back from holidays on Wednesday.
8th April
A rollercoaster of a season ended in tears of joy yesterday as Dundalk took the FAI Cup for the ninth time in their history, with possibly their most unlikely success of the lot. From the last eight onwards, Dundalk have constantly been written off as potential Cup winners but after beating Finn Harps in Ballybofey, and hammering Rovers at Oriel maybe it was just meant to be that we would beat Bohemians 2-1 yesterday at a sunny Tolka Park, brightened by a sea of black and white. Gary Haylock was the hero, scoring either side of half time as Dundalk clawed back from one goal down to take the trophy. Later on, the team came back to Dundalk to scenes of wild celebration, and the party continued well on into the night and early morning at Oriel Park as supporters and players alike made the most of a momentous and marvellous occasion.
Today, we bask in the glory of coverage in all the national newspapers, television stations in Ireland, and indeed, across the water in the UK with Dundalk featuring on Sky Sports News last evening. A European adventure awaits, with Dundalk fans relishing the prospect of a tie somewhere in Europe that potentially offers a wonderful travelling adventure. For the club, the financial implications are enormous and it now appears likely that we will keep the likes of McGuinness, Haylock and Keddy. The prospect of Division One football is not as scary as it previously was, and now hopefully will be no more than a six month holiday.
That is for the future. For now, we have to enjoy the moment. Last night was a brilliant night, and no doubt the celebrations will continue on this week as Dundalk celebrate their ninth Cup success, their first since 1988.
Special mention must go to Walter Durkan, goalkeeper of the 1952 winning team who posted updates from stateside yesterday as the match was in progress. That act alone makes you appreciate the quality in the history of this club, as a hero from 50 years ago joyfully told of the victory of the heroes of today. It makes you so proud to be a Dundalk fan
5th April
For many of the older fans, it's a return to normality but for those slightly younger, the Cup final fever gripping the town at the moment is a new and special experience. On Sunday, Dundalk and Bohemians will do battle at Tolka Park for the FAI Cup, in front of the nation. It's the only one off game in the eircom League season that receives any sort of prominence, and this year, for the first time since 1993 Dundalk will be involved.
After the pain of relegation, it seems inappropiate for there being so much optimism and festivities surrounding Oriel Park this week but that's what the Cup final brings. Training sessions have been conducted in front of cameras and nearly all the players have had interviews in the national or local press. The future of Martin Murray has become a talking point in the national papers and the club have also released a new jersey in addition to other merchandise for the special day.
Indeed, the future of Murray could well be decided by Sunday. With Haylock and McGuinness already coming out to say they will stay if Murray stays, the general consensus that Murray should go has been replaced by a new ideology, perhaps believing that continuity will be the best possible option going into the new season. If it will ensure the likes of Haylock will stay at the club, it has to be supported and the rallying of support from the players behind the manager shows there is a united camp ahead of Sunday in the dressing room.
Well, not completely united because the dressing room is not quite complete. Johnathan Prizeman was ruled out before the semi final, but the prospect of James Keddy and Gary Haylock missing out was indeed a frightening one that faced the club at the start of the week. At this moment in time, Haylock, returning from a nasty knee injury looks likely to pull through and make the line up. For Keddy, the star of our Cup campaign to date, courtesy of his two goals in Finn Harps, the prospects look bleak. Players generally do not recover from hamstring injuries ten days later, and the player underwent last minute laser surgery today in order to be able to play on Sunday. Heartbreak awaits, and with it a significant loss to the Dundalk side. Keddy has made no statement regarding his future, but is not thought to relish the prospect of Division One football. Let's hope he hasn't played his last game for Dundalk.
Haylock's imminent return should mean there is only one likely change from the side that beat Monaghan in vain last Sunday. Cormac Malone is likely to lose out, with manager likely to stick with the experience of Martin Reilly, despite Malone's recent form. Chris Lawless will continue on the left side of midfield, with Cormac McArdle on the substitutes bench.
Bohs have a number of high profile players to choose from, and some quality players will not even make the bench. The likes of Hunt, Crowe and Molloy will all play in a line up filled with many of the most prominent League personalities of the last few years. Last year's double winners have had a poor season, changing manager along the way. Despite being deserved favourites, Bohs have failed to beat Dundalk in the clashes between the sides this season with the last clash between the sides ending 1-1 at Oriel Park. That night, crowd trouble marred the game but on the pitch Bohs outplayed Dundalk who tenaciously came back from a goal down to grab a point.
Bohs are a great side to watch, the best in the country on their day as last Sunday's 4-0 win over Shels clearly demonstrates. They are full time pros and it shows. Their full backs get forward, the movement up front is good and in the middle the majestic Hunt is not only a ball winner but an exquisite passer of the ball. They are the toughest opponents that Dundalk could possibly have, and coming into their third consecutive Cup final will not be fazed about the big day out and all that goes with it.
A lot will rely on the fitness of Haylock and his ability to hold up the ball. The likes of Hoey, Flanagan and even Kavanagh are all willing hard workers but sometimes lack the finesse and composure on the ball which Bohs have, an ability which allows them to settle down in matches. Early on, similar to the Rovers game it will probably be Dundalk on the backfoot, but if Murray's men settle into the game as they did on that occasion then they have a chance.
Have no doubt about it, Bohs are a better side than Dundalk. But this is the Cup, this is magical and anything can happen over ninety minutes. Dundalk have been written off several times in this competition but pull it out when you least expect it. Going into Sunday as underdogs, there is still more hope than confidence amongst supporters, many of whom would be delighted to see Dundalk give all they can, and see what luck falls their way. That would be a proud day for Dundalk fans, but it would be even better if the victory went with it. The head might say no, but then again, if everything went to form in the Cup, we, as a relegated side should not be in the final.
With a vocal crowd from the town behind them, out to enjoy the big occasion Dundalk have a chance on Sunday. Many good sides have gone before them and done the business. On Sunday, this side has the chance to write itself into the history books.
31st March
So it's back to the side columns we go. Back to miserable trips to Limerick, sunny days in Cobh and scant coverage in newspapers. No automatic substitution boards, no travelling fans, no buzz. Out with the maps, bye bye to RTE and back to obscurity. Division One, here we come.
It's been a long time coming, and goodness knows, we've had enough time to prepare for this eventuality but you just had this feeling that all season long everyone at the club believed we would stay up. Perhaps it's the shortened season that kind of confused the mindsets. All along we were told, "we'll get it right, there's plenty of time" but by Christmas the season was two thirds completed and we were still being told that the team was just coming together. As it transpired, they were, three losses in seventeen games is the clear proof of that, and a Cup final to boot but it was still far too late to save a season. And lest we forget, those fourteen unbeaten games included too many draws. Over a third of our Premier Division games finished in draws, and in the end, it was the home draws to Galway, Longford and UCD that really sealed our fate, not Thursday's loss to Pats, cruel as that was.
It's tragic, because this season has contained so many highlights, some glorious memories. It's amazing that it is less than a week since that win in Bray, a truly brilliant night. But now it's all over, and despite the promise of a Cup final we are left with a distinctly empty feeling. The loyal fans of Dundalk FC will be there next season, whereas you'll have a lot of daytrippers on Sunday who will be unbothered by our relegation. Cup final programmes have been recorded for LMFM this week that will go out next week, with interviews conducted before we were relegated. I certainly don't like the idea of programmes going out on radio saying spirits are high in the camp when in truth we are crushed by this. Haylock and Keddy are doubtful for Sunday, and the sobering thought is they may already have played their last games for Dundalk FC. In our hearts, we hope they, along with the likes of McGuinness will stay around for Division One. Our heads say otherwise.
It won't sink in until June, and it is sure to be a surreal week with all the Cup final build up. At the moment, all we can do is reflect on a season where a side too good to go down, relegated itself with a series of shocking performances. It makes me shiver to think about some of them.
31st March
When the fixture list was released last June, many Dundalk fans looked nervously to the last day of the season when Martin Murray's men faced a trip to Century Homes Park. We hoped all would be resolved by then. Now, as we enter the final day of the season, Dundalk have to go back to their bogey ground and win, otherwise we will be back to Gortakeegan next season for Division One football. Even that, may not be enough as a win in Monaghan will only be enough if St Pats go to Longford and win. If the margin of victory is only a single goal in both games, we still go down. A two goal win is needed, and Dundalk will have to attain that without the services of James Keddy and possibly, Gary Haylock.
In truth, it's a depressing scenario, although one we may well have settled for a month ago when the margin between the sides was seven points. It's a credit to the Dundalk side that they have closed the gap so much, but the sad fact remains that the season will have been a complete failure if we go down tomorrow, Cup final or not. We had one aim for this season : to stay up.
It's Easter Sunday, and it's great for "coming back from the dead" cliches but a relegation escape truly would be a remarkable recovery. Yet, the odds are stacked against us. In recent years in the eircom League the TV cameras on the final day have tended to put a jinx on a team needing the result, while elsewhere the other side involved wins, normally away to the bottom team, as was the case for Pats in 98 and Bohs last year when they both won in Kilkenny. Clutching for coincidences ? Probably.
Form though, is pointless in discussing Monaghan-Dundalk matches. What will happen ? What won't happen ? Well, we do know James Keddy won't play and will more than likely be replaced by Chris Lawless, although it could be argued Cormac McArdle would give more balance. Star man Gary Haylock looks set to miss out with a knee injury. A hammer blow, softened by the return of Martin Reilly. Still, were it not for Haylock, we would be long relegated by now. The game in Century Homes suddenly doesn't seem such a foregone conclusion now, no matter how crap Monaghan are. Never stopped them doing us before either.
Will Pats give their all in Longford ? They say they will in their interviews, and I'm sure there intentions are good but will they have the same desire that Longford will have. Let's hope Longford's dubious disclipine proves their downfall, and forces them to concede a number of free kicks in dangerous positions. It's all out of our hands, but Pats are supposed to be the best side in the country. Our fate lies in their hands.
Tomorrow could end in tears, and no matter what happens the spirit of the loyal fans of Dundalk FC will remain. All will travel to Monaghan tomorrow filled with fear. It's going to be tough, and the odds are against us but let's hope history repeats itself and another last day miracle this time works in our favour. We've been doing favours for other sides for years, now it's time for us to receive one ourselves.
29th March
We shouldn't criticise them, because we are relying far too much on them but it's very hard for Dundalk fans to warm to St Pats after the bad fortune we have had against them this season. Three times, we have given them a hell of a close match only to lose by virtue of controversial decisions on all three occasions. Therein, perhaps, lies the reason why they are, on the field at least, League champions. They make the most of what they have, by replacing skill and flair with organisation and professionalism. We have plenty of skill, but when it comes to these kind of tight games, perhaps lack the organisation to grind out results like Pats do.
At this stage everyone knows the scenario on Sunday. Dundalk need St Pats to beat Longford in front of the live TV cameras in Flancare Park, while at the same time Murray's men need to beat Monaghan by two clear goals. More on that tomorrow.
26th March
Dundalk vs St Patricks Athletic - PREVIEW
After a win against Bray Wanderers which ensured the lifespan of all Dundalk fans will be reduced by at least ten years, it would possibly be advisable if those of a nervous disposition stayed away from Oriel Park this Thursday for the clash with St Patricks Athletic. After all, the Dubliners haven't been out of the news recently, and Dundalk are now specialising in dramatic matches. Thursday's game is bound to provide fireworks.
Pats', in normal circumstances, would be coming to Oriel looking for three points to secure the title. Who knows, the eircom League are so prone to taking away points and then giving them back that it may well prove, in the long term that this was actually the case for this game. I'm pretty sure Pats are in a mindset that they are coming to Oriel to take the League, and that adds another plotline to a game that has plenty of storylines on the Dundalk end of things. The win over Bray has ensured that the relegation race will go down to the wire, but Thursday's result will determine what kind of chance Dundalk will have. A win would put is in the driving seat, a draw would mean that the pressure would be on Longford to get at least a draw, while a loss would leave us depending on a Pats win in Longford on Sunday. These are all on the proviso that Dundalk beat Monaghan, which is obviously a must.
Pats are, on footballing merit, the best side in the League at the moment. They punish your mistakes, especially around the box. They unlocked both Bohs and Rovers in the past week due to set pieces, with a defender, Dara Maguire scoring in the last three games. Dundalk have been conceding a lot of free kicks in or around the box, and a repeat of this, along with the concession of corners will be punished. Silly fouls have to be cut out if Dundalk are to pull of an unlikely result. After the drama in Bray, anything can happen. Dundalk are high on confidence, and pending the fitness of Martin Reilly, the side will pretty much be the same that has done the business against Derry and Bray. It's a night where a loss would be a sickening blow, but if only by a single goal, not the end of the world. However, recent form suggests this Dundalk side is not in the mood to lose. A potential classic.
Dundalk kept up their battle to avoid relegation with a sensational 2-1 win over Bray at the Carlisle Grounds on Monday night, the 25th of March. Cormac Malone had headed Dundalk in front, but after Jason Byrne equalised in the 90th minute Dundalk fans got that sinking feeling. Remarkably, it didn't last for long as James Keddy curled in a dramatic winner in the 92nd minute.
Read the report of a magic match, Here
Read the latest installment of Oriel Web on Tour, Here
25th March
Bray Wanderers vs Dundalk - PREVIEW
When Dundalk were promoted to the Premier Division of the eircom League, last May the task immediately started to prepare the club for Premier Division football. Sometime tonight, all at the club will have some idea if it has been a job well done, or not as the case may be. Most have been calling every game a must win since October, so it is no surprise that this one has been branded with the same title. Quite simply though, this is not idle speculation and predictions, Dundalk need to win either tonight or Thursday against St Pats or they WILL be relegated. As the St Pats game is the tougher on paper, the emphasis is on Dundalk to get the job done tonight and then have some margin of error going into the game against the team that would be champions were it not for an administrational cock-up.
Bray are safe from relegation, but a place in Europe looks to be beyond them. They find themselves in the purgatory position at the end of the season, with little of note to play for. However, Pat Devlin is a man that will want Bray to finish as high as is possible, especially since they have fallen back from their League position of last season when they even looked to be title contenders at one stage.
They are unlikely to tinker around with their team so much, with Dundalk hoping the injury that forced Jason Byrne to leave the pitch on Friday night in the first half is enough to keep him out of tonight's clash : he scored a hattrick when the sides first met this season back in September when Bray crushed Dundalk 5-1. The Lilywhites were coming off a high going into that clash, but will not be allowing euphoria from another good win on Friday take their mind off the job in hand. They will be out to gain revenge on the Wanderers for the two defeats they have inflicted on them this season [the return match in Oriel finished 3-0 to Bray].
Confidence will not be a problem, and the only factor Martin Murray should have to worry about regards preparation is selection in midfield. Despite his superb display against Rovers, will Chris Lawless get back into the side ahead of John Flanagan who was so excellent against Derry ? Murray may well stick with the winning formula from Friday night. Martin Reilly should have recovered from his head injury to partner Gary Haylock up front.
It's not really the right time to predict results as heart will invariably rule head. So much to lose, but yet Dundalk have to go out on the pitch to try and win the game. Positive attitude and similar finishing to Friday may well reap rewards and keep the season alive, and the momentum going.
| Played | Pts | GD | |
| Longford Town | 32 | 39 | -10 |
| Dundalk | 30 | 33 | -12 |
Dundalk produced another home performance of quality last night, to defeat Derry City comfortably, by a margin of 4-2 at Oriel Park. The Lilywhites conceded a soft early goal courtesy of Derry defender Darren Kelly but were in front by the break with excellent strikes from James Keddy and Gary Haylock. Cormac Malone scored his first senior goal after half time to make it 3-1 and Donal Broughan scored from the spot on 58 minutes to wrap things up. Coyle scored a late consolation for Derry as Murray's men continued their good recent run.
However, the mood was dampened somewhat by the news that Longford Town had defeated Galway United 2-0 at Terryland Park, to maintain their six point advantage over Dundalk in ninth position. This means Dundalk need to take at least three points from their two games against Bray and St Pats next week if they wish to go into the final day with any chance of staying up. That will be quite a tall order as Dundalk have taken 0 points from their four clashes with those two sides earlier in the season. However, Murray's men are in excellent form and hopefully that will carry over to Bray on Monday in the game that, on paper, looks the most winnable. Certainly, Dundalk will wish to avoid a situation whereby they are hosting St Pats, a team on a mission to prove something, needing a win to even have a chance of staying up.
Dundalk 4 Derry 2 - Match Report
Derry City vs Dundalk - Preview
18th March
| Played | Pts | |
| Longford Town | 31 | 36 |
| Dundalk | 29 | 30 |
It's funny what the postponement of Friday's game against Pats has done to the complexion of the relegation battle at the bottom of the eircom Premier Division table. From a position whereby Dundalk needed Longford to slip up, technically if Dundalk win their two games in hand they will be level pegging with Martin Lawlor's men who have only two games remaining
Of course, it isn't really as simple as that. Dundalk have four games left to play in a relatively short space of time, and while the League table might look slightly nicer now it would have been a lot more convenient to play the game against St Pats on Friday night. It is by far the hardest game of our four games remaining, and should it be rescheduled for a hectic final week of the season it could well mean by that the time St Pats come around to their final game of the season, against Longford, that they are completely and utterly jaded.
The predicament of St Pats could well see the end of the season being extended, thus confusing things for Dundalk. Presumably, should that occur the final games of the season would have to be moved, with the League rightly deeming it fair for the final games for each team taking place simultaenously. Would that mean the League being moved back one week, thus replacing the Cup final on April 7th which would then be moved back ? Would the Cup final remain on April 7th and the League left undecided until April 14th with the playoff taking place thereafter. These are all very confusing issues indeed, with a lot of negotiation ahead.
However, this will be largely irrelevant to Dundalk should they fail to defeat Derry City this Friday at Oriel Park. Longford Town travel to Galway that very same night, in the game that ironically may do most to determine where Dundalk finish at the end of the season. A wn for Longford there, and failure to win for Dundalk would pretty much put the issue beyond all doubt.
It's too easy to get into permutations at this time when the wisest thing to do is be clichéd and take each game at a time. Derry have a serious fixture backlog, with several League games and a two legged League Cup final upcoming. By the time they get to Dundalk on Friday, they will have already endured a trip to Inchicore on Tuesday to play Pats. Surely, this plays to our advantage. Derry have used recent League games to blood young players, and while the magical Liam Coyle danced off the bench last Friday to turn Galway inside out and salvage three points for Derry, it may well be left to the largely untried youngsters to try and defeat Dundalk. The experienced Lilywhites should be able to deal with this threat and make sure that regardless of what happens in Galway, Longford will look over their shoulders.
The game in Galway, however remains crucial. Galway are playing out the season but hopefully their rivalry with Longford will encourage them to produce one last big effort in their final home game. There is a bit of a history between the sides which will hopefully add an edge. Galway are coming off a run of several home defeats, including high scoring losses to Derry and Bray. They can score goals, but can't stop conceding. A Longford win seems more likely than it perhaps did a month or so back, and all we can do is pray that Galway do us a big favour.
Chris Lawless and Arron Callaghan are suspended, with Lawless likely to be replaced in the centre of midfield by John Flanagan. Otherwise the side will remain unchanged from the team which so heroically trounced Shamrock Rovers with a performance that captured the town's imagination.
Fans who go to the game on Friday will receive a ticket stub vital in the process of securing a Cup final ticket. Season ticket holders, and shareholders abroad need not worry with the club confident of satisfying everyone. Derry fans will receive separate tickets from the home fans.
15th March
Tonight's crucial eircom league game at home to St Patricks Athletic has been called off due to a waterlogged pitch, the first game to be called off at the Carrick Road venue due to a waterlogged pitch for quite some time. It is, as yet, unclear when the game will be rescheduled with both sides facing a fixture backlog ahead of the end of the season on 31st March
11th March
Dundalk will face Bohemians in the final of the FAI Cup after the reigning League and Cup champions defeated Derry City 2-1 at Dalymount Park yesterday. A late penalty from Glenn Crowe gave Bohs the win, and a return to defend their Cup crown at Tolka Park on April 7th. Bohs have yet to beat Dundalk in three previous meetings this season, and the most previous encounter infamously ended 1-1 at Oriel last Thursday night on a night marred by crowd trouble. Bohs dominated most of that game and their false league position does not reflect their quality. Believe me, this is the toughest team Dundalk could be playing in the final.
That is something to look forward to however, with more pressing matters close at hand. Longford defeated Monaghan 2-0 on Saturday and are now six points ahead of the Lilywhites, albeit with one more game played. That game in hand for Dundalk is against Bray, with the date unfixed at this moment in time. Longford travel to Bohs on Friday while Dundalk host Pats.
A severe uphill battle lies ahead. Forget the Cup, for now at least.
9th March 2002
MATCH REPORT- Dundalk 4 Shamrock Rovers 0
8th March 2002
Dundalk are in the FAI Cup final after a stunning display to beat Shamrock Rovers 4-0 at Oriel Park tonight. Gary Haylock on 32 and 44 minutes, Martin Reilly on 48 and then a fourth goal by James Keddy gave Dundalk a memorable win in the best night in Oriel Park for many, many, many years.
Words cannot do justice as to how every genuine Dundalk fan feels after this. We've endured several years of misery, travelling up and down Division One, financial crises, losses to the likes of Portmarnock. Tonight, in comparison feels so sweet. We were written off before Finn Harps as they talked of a Harps-Rovers semi final. Then, they mused over the possibility of a Bohs-Rovers final.
Well, sorry we had to spoil the party
8th March 2002 was a day Dundalk fans will never forget.Those that were there, those who followed events from the US, from London, Lusaka, the Canaries and all other corners of the world, all I can say is, enjoy it !! We've suffered enough bad days, so we may as well enjoy the good ones when they come along
Match report will follow tomorrow night when I feel slightly more articulate and less emotional.
It's all going to script - so far. After stuttering through the competition to reach this stage, Dundalk are set up for a home semi final against the old enemy, Shamrock Rovers. Oriel Park has seen nothing like it for years, well, nine years, as Dundalk return to the semi finals of the competition we have won eight times. However, given all that has gone on since 1993, the achievement of getting to the semi finals this year is incomparable with back then. For a new generation of Dundalk fans, this is an unfamiliar experience. This is how it used to be all the time, yet many in attendance on Friday will be getting their first taste of such a big game.
Can we do it ? Of course we can. Rovers do have something of a jinx over us this season, taking seven points from a possible nine yet their luck seems to have run out in recent weeks. After a 3-0 humiliation in Derry City, they were knocked out of the League Cup by Limerick and then lost to UCD at the weekend, in the process damaging their title hopes. Talks of a treble were very optimistic, with the FAI Cup remaining their only likely source of silverware. Rovers have been stung by criticism after recent weeks, and that should pysche them up even more for Friday. It's going to be tough - make no mistake.
However, we have players in our squad who are no strangers to success and progress in the Cup. The likes of Haylock and Keddy have been part of Cup winning teams and will not be fazed by the big game atmosphere. After a battling performance against Bohs, a game against Rovers, a team inferior to Bohs and arguably under a lot more pressure will not seem as hard. In recent weeks, the defence have finally started to sort themselves out, while Ciaran Kavanagh in midfield and Gary Haylock up front are in excellent form.
Martin Murray's selection dilemma revolves around midfield. John Flanagan should be back from injury, yet Chris Lawless deputised so well against Bohemians. Johnathan Prizeman's position is never safe when it comes to Murray, so basically the manager must choose two from Lawless, Prizeman and Flanagan. Murray has loyalty to Flanagan, yet tends not to change a team that does well. However, in this instance he may opt for experience with Flanagan in the middle and Prizeman starting on the right. John Whyte will more than likely retain his place at right back ahead of David Hoey.
Whyte's battle with Billy Woods may be one of the key flashpoints of the game. Woods can do serious damage if on form, and Dundalk will have to be on their guard. However, Rovers' team reverberates around the strong front pair of Grant and Francis, and the rock at the back that is Pat Scully. They will be extremely tough to break down, and it may well be a tight match with the added pressure of the crowd and cameras. It will be a battle, but you need big game players with the ability to change a game. Service to Keddy and Prizeman will be crucial.
A single goal may well be enough to do it, but the percentage call is to predict a 1-1 draw and a replay in Tolka Park next Tuesday. That will not worry Dundalk who have won two replays so far in the competition.
It's going to be one hell of an occasion in Oriel Park this Friday night, so get along early and note the 7:35pm kickoff. Oriel Park is on show to the nation, and it's important that we project a good image of Dundalk fans after all the trouble of the past week. Plenty of songs, plenty of noise, plenty of atmosphere. Make it an occasion to remember, and hopefully, a prelude to an even better occasion in the first week of May.
3rd March
In normal circumstances, we would be talking about a thrilling game which saw a brave Dundalk side draw with the best side in the country, but sadly off the field troubles have clouded post match talk about Thursday's 1-1 draw with Bohemians. The name of Dundalk FC has been mentioned in every paper and on every radio station since Thursday night, and not regarding our struggle against relegation. Instead, fights amongst rival fans and allegations of racial abuse by the home fans dominate conversation.
That whole issue is detailed elsewhere on the site, and on this section we will try and stick to the football. The match report of the game can be found HERE
| Situation & Remaining Games | Played | Pts | GD |
| Longford Town | 29 | 33 | -13 |
| Dundalk | 29 | 30 | -14 |
This has been a good weekend in Dundalk's battle to avoid the drop. Longford were hammered by Bray on Friday, losing 4-1 at the Carlisle Grounds.
| LONGFORD TOWN | DUNDALK |
| Monaghan United [H] | Bray Wanderers [A] |
| Bohemians [A] | St Pats Athletic [H] |
| Galway United[A] | Derry City [H] |
| St Pats Athletic [h] | Monaghan United [A] |
The difference between the sides is now just three points, with Longford's goal difference now only a goal superior to that of Dundalk's. Thursday's draw against Bohs was hard earned in a game where Dundalk were outclassed for long periods. Chris Lawless's courageous strike could well be crucial when the points are tallied at the end of the season. Longford are without several players due to suspension over the next few weeks, and have also lost Englishmen Danny Spiller & Richard Rose.
Cup matters will dominate over the next few days, with the build up to Friday's semi final against Shamrock Rovers. However, the game against Bray, now set to take place next Tuesday if the Cup game finishes at the first attempt could well be make or break time. Longford host Monaghan on Sunday and could really put it up to Martin Murray's men by extending the gap to six points. Oriel Web will look forward to those games on Monday,
Dundalk vs Bohemians - PREVIEW
Dundalk host Bohemians this Thursday night in the fifth last round of the Premier Division season. After the weekend win over Longford, Martin Murray's men are now within four points of Longford with a slim chance of avoiding the drop. In order to improve our chances from slim to good, Dundalk need to show they can follow up one good result with another by winning on Thursday against Bohs, or at the very worst drawing and hoping Longford lose to Bray at the weekend. Even reducing the gap to three points by the weekend might suffice going into the final four games.
Bohs are on form under new boss Stephen Kenny,and their League position is disgraceful for a side that is, in truth one of the top two sides in the country at the moment. If Kenny had taken over in the Summer, I think Bohs would be coming here as League title contenders, and the Gypsies are still hoping to put in a late run to make Europe. They will come to Oriel expecting to win, and will play like a side looking for a win which will make for an entertaining game. Dundalk are likely to remain unchanged from the side which won 3-1 against Longford on Saturday night.
It is hard to be confident, given Dundalk's penchant for following up good wins on the road with dire home performances. However, one hopes with five games to go the team realises they just cannot take the foot off the pedal again and go out there with the same fire and passion they did on Saturday. If they do, they can get a result. However, three points might be too optimistic. For this week, Murray's men may have to settle for one.
23rd February
Passing football, you know, it has it's benefits. It leads to chances, and goals. Maybe now, Dundalk will stop taking the direct route at every opportunity. At times tonight, the passing from Dundalk was excellent far better than most games this season. Thankfully, the result to go all along with it was excellent as well. A 3-1 win over Longford and suddenly everything does not seem so depressing.
Why do these players play with our emotions like that ?! We were doomed last week, and at least that was that. Or so it seemed. But now we're back within four points, so close that expectations will be raised that maybe we can pull it off. On Thursday night against Bohs we will again go into the game full of hope. Maybe this time, we can get two wins on the trot.
19th February
Dundalk travel to Longford this Saturday in the knowledge that even a win may not be enough in the quest to avoid relegation. Given Dundalk's away form, especially in games outside Dublin, a win for the Lilywhites would not be surprising. However, that would leave the gap down to four points, with five points remaining. A tricky run of fixtures against Bohs, Bray and St Pats follow the Longford match. It really is clutching at straws to expect Dundalk to turn it around from here.
This Saturday, John Flanagan will return from suspension and will probably replace Liam Dunne. Murray may drop Arron Callaghan after his misdemeanours against Galway, Donal Broughan stands by. David Hoey returns to fitness, and will compete with John Whyte for the right back slot. Johnathan Prizeman will probably have to settle for a place on the bench, if he even gets that far.
It was a game everyone was looking forward to, but now the optimism is gone. A week of what ifs.
17th February
Despite a magnificent Cup win on Tuesday against Finn Harps, [see HERE] , Dundalk look set to play their football in Division One next season after a dire, dull and disgraceful display against Galway United at Oriel Park last night. The game finished 1-1, with a small report HERE.
Tonight, Longford Town defeated Derry 1-0 to go seven points ahead of Dundalk in the table, with six games to go. Dundalk will need an absolute miracle to stay up, due to mismanagement, lack of motivation and will to win. Again and again we here talk of how things are going to change etc etc but again and again this team fails. Arron Callaghan, who is 37 years old got sent off for two silly silly misdemeanours last night that in truth, cost Dundalk the three points. Liam Dunne, playing instead of Johnathan Prizeman was too busy making rude gestures at the crowd, rather than improving his performance. Prizeman jogged along the line, and then sat down when the last substitution was made.
Something inherently wrong. Things cannot get any worse. Sack the manager, shoot the manager, I dunno ..anything would be an improvement. Get your maps back out folks, we're going to Division One. No one to blame but ourselves.
Finn Harps vs Dundalk - TUESDAY
Dundalk vs Galway United - FRIDAY
This time next week, Dundalk fans will have some idea how this season is set to end. Two vital games this week, away to Finn Harps in an FAI Cup Quarter Final Replay, and at home to Galway in a basement Premier Division clash will shape the rest of the Dundalk season. The Cup game speaks for itself, with the tie to be settled tomorrow in Finn Park. The lure of the semi final, and the finance and prestige that brings with it could well act as a spur to the League effort and improve the profile of the club. The crowd last Thursday was superb, and a Cup semi final appearance would bring bigger numbers and more money. Shamrock Rovers are the only guaranteed qualifers to the semi final, with the other replays seeing Bray host Bohs, and Derry host UCD. Cup semi finals against Rovers, Derry or Bohs would yield massive crowds wherever the venue.
Ultimately, the game on Friday against Galway is a lot more important. Failure to beat the inferior Galway side at home would spell the end of any hopes of catching Longford Town in the League. The Midlanders host Derry this weekend. A loss for Longford this weekend, and a win for Dundalk would mean the gap would be reduced to two points before the crucial clash in Flancare Park the weekend after next. Of our remaining games, the home game against Galway is arguably the easiest as the away trip to Monaghan is a banana skin we know far too much about. Murray's men have to start showing conviction and winning games at home. It's as simple as this ; if Dundalk do not beat Galway United at home on Friday they do not deserve to stay up. It's an absolutely pivotal game to the rest of the season.
Team wise, Donal Broughan returns from suspension after missing the Harps game. After Arron Callaghan's excellent performance on Thursday, Broughan may find it hard to get back into side. The shuddering prospect of Broughan being reverted to right back looms if Hoey does not recover from the injury which forced him out of the first meeting on Thursday last. The rest of the team will more than likely be unchanged for the Cup game. John Flanagan misses the Galway game through suspension, and this should see Johnathan Prizeman return to the team in central midfield alongside Chris Lawless. This is a midfield pairing people have been calling out for, and it will be interesting to see how they get on should Murray plump for that formula.
It's a busy week, and a crucial week, but as with all things regarding Dundalk this season it is impossible to predict what happens. What's worth remembering is, a loss in Donegal would be a bitter blow, but not the end of the world. Failure to beat Galway would be an absolute disaster, and would condemn Dundalk to Division One next season. Get ready for a rollercoaster week.
9th February
Dundalk will get another chance on Tuesday night to progress to the semi finals of the FAI Cup, after drawing 1-1 with Finn Harps at Oriel Park on Thursday night. A draw was all that Dundalk deserved, as despite having more clearcut chances than Harps, they only came about as a result of aimless hoofs and poor Harps defender, not skill, imagination or creativity. In truth, this was an absolutely awful display, a Dundalk side that looked completely clueless with the ball on their feet with the odd exception. How Martin Murray can send a team onto the pitch playing like that is beyond me, but it's an absolute disgrace. Poor old Johnathan Prizeman got two minutes to impress at the end of the game, an insult with a player who actually can create chances.
Crowd congestion delayed the kickoff the other night, with over 4,000 fans in Oriel Park, with a good size travelling support. It shows there is great potential support for Dundalk in the town, but it also showed this will not be allowed develop with an absolutely hopeless and clueless manager in charge
4th February
DUNDALK VS FINN HARPS - FAI CUP QUARTER FINAL PREVIEW
Dundalk host Finn Harps this Thursday in the quarter final of the FAI Cup at Oriel Park, hoping to make the semi finals for the first time since 1993. Avoiding relegation may be the number one concern of all at the club at the moment, but victory on Thursday will ensure live television coverage on RTE and Sky Sports in the semi final, which would provide extra advertising opportunities to boost the finances and profile of the club.
However, Johnathan Speake's Finn Harps side will be no pushover. They conquered Shelbourne in the last round, winning 2-1 at Finn Park to progress to this stage. In Kevin McHugh they have one of the most prolific strikers in the League who proved that night, and also last season that he is more than capable of scoring against Premier Division defences.
They will travel to Oriel Park with some confidence, with Dundalk's 10th place in the League table hardly overawing for a side who believe they belong in the Premier Division and are right up there in the fight to make that step up next season. Encouragingly for Dundalk, Harps do tend to leak goals, so the chances are it could be a high scoring encounter on Thursday night.
Donal Broughan is out suspended for Dundalk, so Arron Callaghan will more than likely in central defence. It is hard to envision any other changes being made after Dundalk's performance in Cork yesterday which should have yielded three points. Martin Reilly will have to be more potent in front of goal, while Murray hopes some of the chances fall to Gary Haylock. Chris Lawless will continue in central midfield and will hopefully follow up on the promise of recent displays. Johnathan Prizeman will watch from the sidelines as Lawless and Flanagan maintain their midfield partnership, yet Prizeman's prowess from set plays and general creativity should see him play a part in the game at some stage.
Underestimating Finn Harps would be foolish, but I believe Dundalk will win the game on Thursday night. This team is so bloody infuriating that it would be ironic, albeit unsurprising if they produced one of their best performances of the season in a Cup game. The benefits of a semi final place are quite obvious, and may well act as an impetus, and not a distraction in our bid to avoid relegation.
Kick off at Oriel Park is 7:45pm and a big crowd is expected.
3rd February
Dundalk and Cork played out a 0-0 draw in Turners Cross today, in a game that Martin Murrays men could well have won. Manager, Murray missed the game through illness, and Ollie Ralph was barking out the instructions on the sideline as Dundalk put the pressure on Cork early on.
Gary Haylock hit the upright with a tenth minute effort as Dundalk started well, before Colin P O'Brien headed against the bar on 30 mins as Cork lifted their game. Martin Reilly and John Flanagan also had chances before half time. Stephen McGuinness saved Dundalk on one occasion, clearing off the line after a Conor O'Grady effort. The second half wasn't as lively as the first, and the game ended scoreless with both sides having half chances in this period. Martin Reilly missed a good one on one chance on 57 minutes, yet the Dundalk defence had to clear off the line soon after.
Radio reports suggest Dundalk were unlucky not to take all three points, but at least it's a point gained this weekend. With the Cup providing some distraction this week, it means there is ten days until Dundalk's most important game of the season so far, at home to Galway United in the League. Every game seems to be the biggest of the season so far, but Dundalk simply have to beat inferior sides at home if they are to stay up and put the pressure on Longford who play Derry two nights later. The following week, Dundalk travel to Flancare Park to play Longford in the game that may well decide all. Murrays men need to put themselves into a position where they can pass Longford should they win that game, which makes the Galway game absolutely crucial.
Todays Dundalk team was, Connolly, Hoey, Crawley, Broughan, McGuinness, Flanagan, Kavanagh, Reilly, Haylock, Lawless, Keddy. John Ryan and Johnathan Prizeman came on for Reilly and Lawless in injury time. There was no place for youngsters Cormac McArdle and Cormac Malone on the bench after the promise of their performance against Shels last Sunday
Cork City vs Dundalk - PREVIEW
2nd February
Turners Cross passed an inspection this afternoon, so tomorrows game against Cork City looks set to go ahead in Turners Cross, kicking off at 2pm. Dundalk travel South badly in need of a result, to capitalise on Longford's 3-0 loss to Shels on Friday night.
City are still in contention for a European place, and last week scored a comfortable 2-0 win over Bray at the Carlisle Grounds. After being knocked out of the Cup early on, their focus for the rest of the season is the League so they will be confident of three points tomorrow to further their European goals.
The last time the sides met, Dundalk won 1-0 courtesy of an 87th minute James Keddy strike. At the time Dundalk looked set to go on to better things while Cork were in the doldrum. Things have drastically changed since that sunny September afternoon. Dundalk have only beaten two sides above them in the League table since.
Tomorrow, the return of David Crawley to the side ahead of Stuart Connolly may well be the only change. Johnathan Prizeman is back in the squad, but Murray may choose to keep faith with Lawless and Flanagan in the middle.
It's hard to see Dundalk keeping a clean sheet tomorrow given recent defensive performances. Up front, Gary Haylock looks lively but the movement around him has been poor. Martin Reilly has a lot to prove, and James Keddy hasn't been given the right service to get into decent positions. It pains me to say it, but I really can't see Dundalk getting a result. Perhaps if it's a horrible day, the game will descend into a dour ugly battle that may end in stalemate. It was similar the last day, except Dundalk nicked it with a late winner. Sadly, the side seems to lack the confidence to pull a result out of the hat at the moment. The self destruct button has been pressed far too often for this writer to have any confidence going into tomorrow. We can only live in hope
2nd February
Dundalk's game with Cork tomorrow is in danger of being cancelled, due to the current inclement weather sweeping across the country. A pitch inspection is scheduled for this afternoon, so that the Dundalk team will not travel in vain although a supporters trip to Cork was scheduled to leave at 8am this morning.
Wet weather is sweeping the country and all of last nights games bar one were called off. Cork is suffering some of the worst conditions and it is unlikely the game will go ahead. Credit is due to City for organising plenty of inspections so at least some of the Dundalk party will not travel in vain should the game go the way of many others
The one game that did go ahead last night was particularly notable for Dundalk fans, with Longford losing 3-0 to Shels at Tolka Park. Significantly, Longford had three players [Vinny Perth, Eric Lavine, Stuart Byrne] sent off and it looks like they will miss the crucial game between Longford and Dundalk at Flancare Park.
Longford's loss and indisclipine is obviously good news for Dundalk, but like last weekend, it will be absolutely pointless, pardon the pun, should Dundalk go out and lose against Cork. Matching our results will do Longford nicely for the rest of the season.
Transfer deadline day came and went with no activity at Oriel Park on Thursday. Contrary to earlier reports, Johnathan Prizeman was not forced to leave the club, instead training on Tuesday and then being included in the squad for the trip to Cork on Sunday. The public falling out between Murray and Prizeman has only gone to increase the players popularity amongst Dundalk fans.
Murray is very much a man under pressure, and it is hard to see how he has any long term future in the managers job at Oriel Park. The mob are very much against him, with the recent singling out of Prizeman for criticism a disgraceful example of bad man management.
It's tough for a manager when you lose the fans, and every game is a test for Murray. Defeat in Cork on Sunday would surely be the final straw, with the chance to catch Longford being lost despite the fact the Midlanders are losing games. People talk of the difficulty to find a replacement, but realistically what manager could do worse at the moment ? The fact is, Dundalk have not beaten a side currently above them in the table since October. And for a side in 10th position, that is truly a damning statistic.
| Bottom half Prem. Div | Played | Pts |
| UCD | 25 | 32 |
| Bray Wanderers | 24 | 31 |
| Longford Town | 25 | 30 |
| Dundalk | 25 | 24 |
| Galway United | 24 | 18 |
| Monaghan United | 25 | 12 |
The league table on the right paints a pretty grim picture for Dundalk fans. With eight games left go, Dundalk are six points from safety and without a win in the League against any side above them in the table since last October.
Of the remaining eight games, four are at home and four away. Galway, Bohemians, St Patricks Athletic and Derry have to visit Oriel Park again, while Dundalk face trips to Cork this coming Sunday, and also Longford Town, Monaghan United and Bray Wanderers.
This Sundays game against Cork is a must win, as is every game in the run in if Dundalk are going to have any chance. Time is running out, and now is not the time for the ship to be rocking with arguments in the camp.
27th January
The cameras came to Oriel Park today, and what they saw was the reason Dundalk occupy tenth position. Able to compete with better sides for long periods, but when it comes down to it, incapable of breaking them down, and prone to absolutely unbelievable defensive errors. It finished 2-1 to Shels today, with both goals gifted to Dermot Keely's men. Broughan pulled one back from the spot after Shels raced into a two nil lead, but despite Shels being down to ten men for the last eleven minutes Dundalk never once looked like getting the equaliser
Some of the mistakes made today would nearly reduce you to tears. Completely disorganised at the back, and lethargic up front, Dundalk may have competed for long periods against Shels but did not sustain pressure for long enough to have Shels on the back foot. Shels' back four managed to deal with the Dundalk threat on their own, so that when they won the ball they had plenty of options going forward.
All that aside, the bare facts remain. We may not have lost ground on Longford this weekend, but we're not trying to maintain our position, we're trying to improve it. Matching their results until the end of the season means relegation, with seven points [due to goal difference] needed to be made up on Martin Lawlor's side. Somehow, I don't think that Lawlor, watching from the stand today will have left Oriel Park too worried.
Under fire manager Martin Murray cannot have improved his popularity by having a fall out with another popular Dundalk player. Midfielder Johnathan Prizeman was left out of the squad for todays game with Shelbourne today for "form and attitude" reasons, according to quotes attributed to Murray on inthenet.ie.
Following on from the disputes which have seen Ger Robinson and David Ward leaving the club, you really must wonder why this keeps on happening. If it happens once, you can blame it on a players temperament but this is a recurring theme. Prizeman and Ward are Dundalk's two most entertaining players to watch, and Robinson is our top scorer. We are a stronger side with all three at our disposal, but after forcing Robinson and Ward out, let's hope Murray doesn't do the same with Prizeman before Thursdays transfer deadline.
If he does, then it is truly a hanging offence. We don't see what happens in the dressing room, but there are many other players who could be cited for criticism over their "form". They haven't been ridiculed or insulted like Prizeman has been by his manager today.
Perhaps Martin should figure out why his own "form" as manager isn't so good, and query if his "attitude" is perhaps getting him into a little bit of bother. Maybe the way certain players play might not fit in with the demands of some of his coaching staff, who knows ? But, if Murray is going to fall out with the two players who create most chances [Prizeman and Ward], and the player who puts them away more than any other [Robinson], then it's hardly surprising we are on the way down. Whose next ? I shudder to think.
26th January
Dundalk vs Shelbourne - PREVIEW
Dundalk host Shelbourne tomorrow afternoon at Oriel Park, for the benefit of the RTE cameras. The last week has been difficult for the Lilywhites, with everyone at the club having to face up to the fact Dundalk are now odds on to go back to the depths of Division One football. Dundalk are six points from safety, on 24 points,, with former favourite Martin Lawlor steering Longford into a decent position with a win at Belfield last Sunday. UCD's loss in that game, and subsequent 3-0 loss to Bohs last night may well drag them back into the relegation battle with the students now on 32 points.
Tomorrow, table toppers Shelbourne visit Oriel Park hoping to inflict more misery upon Dundalk in a game that sees several players facing their former clubs. Dundalk players James Keddy, Johnathan Prizeman and Gary Haylock played for Shels last season while the visitors side features goalie Steve Williams, midfielder Brian Byrne, and indeed, experienced defender/midfielder Jim Gannon who are no strangers to Oriel Park patrons.
That adds an extra bite to the game, but in truth, neither team should need it as they are involved in crucial battles at either end of the table. With David Crawley suspended, Stuart Connolly stands by to return at left back. Connolly is fighting a niggly injury to be fit for the match, and should he miss out Cormac McArdle may well stand in to replace him. Elsewhere Dundalk are likely to remain unchanged from the side which lost 4-1 to Shamrock Rovers, with Martin Murray short of cover in the attacking positions. Again, a lot rests on the shoulders of Haylock to inspire the beleaguered hosts. However, the area of the Dundalk side which needs most work is the defence, with goals being conceded by the hatful recently. With the likes of Geogeghan on the prowl, Broughan and McGuinness will be kept busy but the biggest threat will be the runners from midfield, with the likes of Crawford and Davy Byrne dangerous going forward. The Dundalk midfield will be seriously tested.
It's hard to see Dundalk keeping a clean sheet in this affair, and to be honest, it's hard to see Dundalk getting anything more than a draw from this game. Even that will be no good, with wins needed to keep Martin Murrays men in touch. In the cold light of day at Oriel Park tomorrow, this team of underachievers will be tested by the nation's best in front of the cameras. It could be a long afternoon
20th January
Dundalk find themselves six points from safety today, after Longford's 2-1 win over UCD at Belfield Park yesterday. The students have been poor at home all season, and a 68th minute strike from Alan Kirby gave Martin Lawlor his first win as Longford manager. It means that with nine games to go in the League, Dundalk are six points from safety with Longford on 30 points to Dundalk's 24. What's more, the Midlanders have a vastly superior goal difference, meaning the difference is truly seven points.
This coming week, Dundalk host Shelbourne on Sunday with the highlights featuring on Sunday Sport that evening. Ollie Byrne will obviously have to rearrange travel plans. Longford host Shamrock Rovers on Saturday night.
[By the way, hello to the lads from Ennis who are regular visitors to the site that will be travelling for the Shels match. Maybe they might bring a change of luck with them]
NEW
CLUB TIEDespite doom and gloom all around due to on the pitch matters, the work goes on at Oriel Park and PRO Michael Duffy is busy promoting the new limited edition Dundalk FC tie, [pictured left]
The ties go into the Club Shop next week, but can be purchased beforehand from Mickey by ringing, 087-6683869 or e-mailing him at THIS address. They are priced at &euro20 and sales are reportedly going very well.
Duffy is enthusiastic about the new club tie,
"This is your chance to own the first specially commissioned DFC tie in living memory to be made available to all supporters and officials alike. Anyone looking for ties to be sent overseas, ring, and we'll discuss postage charges"
19th January
A defensive display of quite shocking ineptness proved Dundalk's downfall again last night, as not for the first time this season Martin Murrays men received an unnecessary trouncing. It ended up 4-1 in the favour of Shamrock Rovers, a scoreline that fails to tell the whole story of a game that looked like being the proverbial game of two halves until Rovers struck a killer third goal on 70 minutes.
Rovers went in 2-0 up at the break, and Dundalk really couldn't have complained despite playing well in spells during the first half. The second half was a different story as a wind assisted Dundalk side dominated from the restart for the next twenty five minutes. In that time John Flanagan headed Dundalk back into the game, and Dundalk had sufficient possession that could have led to an equaliser. However a Rovers break led to a killer third goal, and after that it was all one way as Rovers cruised home. Flanagan was sent off on 79 minutes after his late tackle on Billy Woods was harshly adjudged to be worthy of a straight red card.
Dundalk remain in the automatic relegation zone, and now hope that UCD defeat Longford at Belfield Park tomorrow to ensure no ground was lost this weekend, even if time is running out. Consistent concession of more than three goals a game could end up crucial as our goal difference means we will have to finish one point better than the Midlanders come the end of the season
Despite Dundalk's dismal form in the League, we are remarkably, three games away from Europe and one game away from a live performance on Sky Sports. That comes after progression to the quarter finals of the FAI Cup, in which Martin Murrays men will host Johnathan Speake's Finn Harps
Despite being a Division One side, Harps knocked out Shels in the last round and must be respected. Their pacy strikers, Cooke and McHugh will have a field day if given the service against our current back four so it could well be a high scoring Cup tie. In truth, it is an excellent opportunity to progress, being at home against Division One opposition
The game looks set to take place on Thursday 7th February, thus robbing it of the magic Cup atmosphere it would bring at a weekend kickoff with a large travelling support. Such is life
One game that Dundalk do want to take place on a weekend is the League game against Shels this coming week. The game was set for Thursday, but at the request of eircom League commissioner Roy Dooney, and RTE television Dundalk agreed to move the game to Sunday so it would feature on Sunday Sport that evening. RTE are irked by the lack of key games to show on a Sunday, and are losing patience with clubs who demanded their own highlights package
However, Ollie Byrne of Shels is unhappy. His personal crusade against Dooney is of course, unrelated, with Byrne instead claiming travel plans were already in place which should not be disturbed. In the age of professionalism, Shels still can't seem to organise a few buses nine days in advance.
As yet, Oriel Web is unsure if the game goes ahead on Thursday or Sunday, but should it be on Sunday Dundalk will receive compensation for loss of gate revenue, while also getting some decent PR and advertising space on the box.
Shamrock Rovers vs Dundalk - PREVIEW
After the euphoria of the Cup win over Kilkenny on Sunday, it's back to more important matters for Dundalk at Richmond Park this Friday, when they travel to play Shamrock Rovers at their current, temporary home. Our last trip to Richmond Park saw a couple of dodgy refereeing decisions giving the ground owners, St Pats, three points. Dundalk will be hoping for better luck this Friday
There is a feeling that Dundalk owe Shamrock Rovers one. The last game between the sides which finished 0-0 was evenly matched, bu the first meeting which finished 1-0 to Rovers at Tolka Park flattered the "hosts", as Dundalk bossed that game for long periods and were unlucky not to come away with at least a point. Rovers have failed to impress both times they have played the Lilywhites, but still maintain their lofty position in the top three. However, on the evidence of the last two meetings between the sides, Dundalk will go into the game with confidence they can take all three points. With Longford three points ahead, and only ten games to go, Dundalk have to start winning games
Both sides had Cup wins at the weekend with Rovers scoring three late goals to beat Monaghan 4-1 in a game that was poised for a long time at 1-1. Dundalk's win against Kilkenny will hopefully give Martin Murrays men some confidence. One thing that must be avoided is a repeat of the first half display in that game. If that is repeated on Friday, an experienced Rovers side will take us to pieces
James Keddy is back from suspension, and Stuart Connolly should be back from injury so Martin Murray will have something of a selection headache. Despite a good display on Sunday, Cormac McArdle looks set to drop to the bench with Keddy returning on the left side. Then Murray will be left with the choice of Crawley or Connolly at left back, or else move the latter into central midfield, with either Flanagan or Prizeman losing out. With Ger Robinson gone to Kilkenny, Murray is now competely reliant on Martin Reilly and Gary Haylock doing the business up front.
They will need to be on form for this game. Rovers do give you chances, but they are a clinical side going forward. Goals are to be expected in this encouter, and a return to Sundays clinical finishing gives us a chance. Unbeaten in the last six games, confidence should be high. Hopefully a decent travelling support makes it to Richmond as the season run in begins in earnest.
13th January
Dundalk progressed to the quarter finals of the FAI Cup today, with a clinical second half display enough to beat a luckless Kilkenny side who dominated the first half
In truth, Dundalk were lucky to go in only 1-0 down at the break as Philip Hughes scored a cracking goal to put the Cats in front. Dave Mulcahy hit the crossbar minutes into the second half, and Kilkenny paid for that miss as goals from Johnathan Prizeman and Gary Haylock after good work by Cormac McArdle put the Whites in front. A first Dundalk goal for Ciaran Kavanagh made it 3-1 after 77 minutes.
Kilkenny scored in the 87th minute through Damien Brennan to make the last few minutes interesting, but Dundalk held on, to the delight of the travelling support
The quarter final draw takes place on Wednesday on the Six One News on RTE One.
13th January
Donal Broughan hopes to return to the Dundalk side for todays Cup game against Kilkenny City in Buckley Park. Arron Callaghan is definitely out through injury, and with Noel Melvin on the long term injury list Martin Murray hopes Donal Broughan will be back from injury to solve a potential defensive problem.
Chris Lawless returns from suspension into the squad, and will most likely start on the bench
It seems as though today's opponents Kilkenny are guaranteed to take something from this game before it starts, as Ger Robinson is set to join the Cats from Dundalk. The striker has had limited opportunites in recent weeks since the return to form of Martin Reilly and the signing of Gary Haylock. He is the club's top scorer, and a fan favourite but despit scoring goals since arriving from Middlesborough, rumour has it he failed to hit it off with Martin Murray
It is a great coup for the Cats if true, but he is not eligible to play in the Cup tie against what now seems to be, his former club
Cash problems are obviously dictating this move, but Dundalk now look thin on frontmen. With David Ward at Newry, and Mick O'Byrne injured Murray will now look to either John Ryan, Anto Reilly or even recall David Martin from limbo should Reilly or Haylock be injured
Cup matters take precedence in our minds at the moment, but in truth, the most important game of the weekend for Dundalk took place last night when Longford faced Cork City. The game ended 0-0 which leaves Longford three points ahead of Dundalk with the same amount of games played
Longford have a better goal difference which basically means Dundalk need two games to pass them out. New manager Martin Lawlor fielded an experimental side, with striker Keith O'Connor at centre half. Maybe next week, for our sake, he'll play Eric Lavine in goals.
The AGM of the co-op took place on Tuesday, with the meeting not exactly overflowing with happiness or optimism. Chairman Des Denning made it clear that the club are facing a shortfall of £60,000 which needs to be found in the next four weeks, or else serious decisions will have to be made. Selling top players is one option that has not been ruled out. New shareholders and lotto sellers are required.
Another low point was the fact that in electing a new board, only seven people stood forward when the club had been looking for nine people. It is an astonishing insult to those behind the co-op plan that we could be left two people short of the required. After all the talk of how good the co-op would be, and all the various criticisms of how it was being run this was a chance for people to step forward and make a difference. As usual, it is left to the same people to carry the can.
A sheet was handed around looking for people who would voluntarily help the club, for as little as one hour a week perhaps on matchdays or in other aspects. Sadly, only ten people aside from those already involved with the club put their name down.
John Savage and Aidan Gaughran stepped down from the board due to other commitments, and Oriel Web would like to take the chance to praise the pair for their excellent work during the past eighteen months or so
Savage was still busy on Tuesday night, outlining plans for a new seater 650-700 seater stand on the Shed side of the ground which would incorporate a gym, four dressing rooms, multi purpose meeting rooms, shops and offices with more planned. This stand would be self financing when it comes to fruition, but at the moment the club have applied for a grant to get the work underway. Des Denning says that the project will eventually give the club the finances to appoint a full time commercial manager
Of course, the meeting threw up it's fair share of bickering over some of Martin Murrays decisions, which in many ways is understandable, if a classic case of bad timing. People have axes to grind, and this was obviously the perfect platform. These issues are discussed on the terraces and in the stand every week, and what was brought up the other night is no different to the normal conversation on the message board or anything else. I'm sure those at the club are aware of these grievances, and with the manager not in attendance, all talk on the matter was pretty pointless.
On a slightly brighter note, 15 shares were sold on the evening
The board has some new names, with Frank Mullen the new vice chairman. The details of whose who at the club now can be found on the staff page
The night obviously provided more bad news than good, with the outlook grim. Some fans were left dissatisfied with what they saw and heard with one fan summing up his thoughts on the night by saying,
"The call to buy more shares [a] give us more money [b] find more shareholders [c] find more sponsors and [d] give us more ideas would have been better received if they had some sort of plan, some idea of how we're gonna get promotion next season. But, the meeting rather than telling us why we should give money just asked for cash and ideas on howe to raise more quickly. We can't just keep asking for cash handouts whenever we need it"
Tommy Connolly has ended his long 37 year association with Dundalk FC, choosing to walk away from the club this week before the Dunfield project got up and running again.
Time constraints mean I cannot do the man the justice he deserves in typing a long report. In truth, I wasn't around for the mainstay of his period at the club, so this article from dundalkfc.com features the thoughts of Connolly. The under 21 manager leaves the club he joined back in 1963 - the year that JFK was shot, to put it in perspective.
Kilkenny vs Dundalk - PREVIEW
Despite relegation being Dundalk's primary concern this season, the magic of the Cup will bring a large travelling support to Buckley Park next Sunday, as Martin Murrays' men take on Kilkenny in Round Three of the Carlsberg FAI Cup.
It's no ordinary Cup tie for Dundalk. The very mention of the name Kilkenny City FC is enough to make some Dundalk fans' blood boil. It of course refers to the climax to the 1999/2000 season, when Kilkenny FC, despite admitting forging a players signature in order to have him registered in time for a League match, escaped punishment and got the three points that took them above Dundalk into the playoff spot, and led to their subsequent promotion.
What made it even more galling was, the decision was made by Milo Corcoran, a regular visitor to Buckley Park. The whole affair left a sour taste in the mouth, sweetened somewhat by Kilkennys subsequent traumatic experiences in the Premier Division where they failed to even score ten points and were doomed to relegation before the Christmas decorations even went up. Back in Division One, KCFC are a different playing squad completely to the side that pipped us in 99/00. Their star player that season, Johnathan Prizeman, will be lining out for Dundalk next Saturday. Still, there is a sense of unfinished business with the main players of that affair like Jim Rhatigan still running the show at Kilkenny who are still at their usual skulduggery. The latest incidence was when Waterford, who travelled to KCFC in the last round of the Cup, claimed that Kilkenny did not give them the correct cut of the gate receipts, and kept the majority for themselves. Such scandal is hardly uncommon at Buckley Park, and it would be nice to end their Cup dream next weekend.
Still, Kilkenny are a side on the upgrade again, and have put in some decent performances in recent weeks, hammering Athlone 4-1 at Mels Park last week, and also defeating Finn Harps 3-1 at home over the Christmas period. They are just off the pace in Division One with a team made up mainly of young players cast off from the main Dublin clubs, along with the likes of Peter Rogers and Anto Mitchell who secured promotion with Monaghan last season
Dundalk have defensive injury worries to contend with. Arron Callaghan, who came off at half time against UCD with a knee injury will face a battle to be fit. It is yet unclear if Donal Broughan will be back in time, and should both miss out Dundalk will probably have to ask David Crawley to slot in the unorthodox role. However, should Callaghan return in time, Dundalk will probably field an unchanged starting eleven, with James Keddy still serving out his suspension.
Away from home, Dundalk have been good in recent weeks. Kilkenny will be confident after their win last week, and will fancy their chances against Dundalk. Many may look upon this as a potential shock. Provided Dundalk get through the first half hour, there is no reason why they cannot win this game at the first attempt. It's just a matter of keeping the ball on the deck like we did at times against UCD, and the chances will come. The last thing we need is a replay, so Dundalk should go to Kilkenny with an attacking outlook intent on winning the game at the first attempt. Let's hope the players can deliver a victory that would be so, so, sweet.
5th January
Martin Murray believes Dundalk are starting to put the pressure on Longford, and still believes that Dundalk's fate is in their own hands. Murray made the comments after Thursday nights draw with UCD, in an interview with new Irish football website inthenet.ie
Murray believes time is on Dundalk's side "There’s a lot of points still to be played for and anything can happen. We are getting closer to Longford all the time and our draw against UCD will put more pressure on them".
The under pressure boss was happy with
the performance against UCD and with the sides most recent form.
"we worked our socks off again and I must say I was
pleased. That’s five games unbeaten now in league and
cup"
Meanwhile, on loan striker David Ward scored his second goal for Newry Town in a 2-2 draw away to Northern Irish league leaders Glenavon yesterday. Ward scored a goal of tremendous quality, storming past two players after picking up the ball forty five yards out before slotting the ball past Alan Gough. Ward was also on target in last weeks 1-1 draw with Ards, and is making a big impression up North
Meanwhile, Drogheda have decided to terminate the loan period of Anto Reilly. Reilly started well at United Park scoring goals in the early part of the season. However, his form dipped and the Drogs, who signed a new striker from Macclesfield Town on Friday, have decided to part with Reilly who had been out of the team for the last number of weeks.
Presumably, Reilly will return to Dundalk and will most likely link up with the under 21 squad. With David Ward on loan at Newry, Anto would probably come back into contention for a place on the bench should any of the first choice strikers be injured
His early form at Drogheda proved he was good enough to score at that level, but for some reason or other, things didn't work out for the Oriel park fan favourite at United Park.
3rd January
Dundalk missed out on a chance to move level on points with Longford Town at Oriel Park tonight, when they could only draw 1-1 against UCD. In truth, Martin Murrays men can have little complaints about the outcome of the first game of 2002.
Michael O'Donnell put UCD on front on 54 minutes, after a first half in which the students had the better chances with the wind on their backs. Dundalk were level three minutes later when UCD defender Tony McDonnell put through his own net after a Martin Reilly cross. Dundalk had chances after that, with visiting goalkeeper Barry Ryan doing well to deny Gary Haylock and Martin Reilly. The Lilywhites also had a goal disallowed when Cormac McArdle, making his senior debut after coming on at half time, put in a decent cross that keeper Ryan fumbled over the line. However, referee John McDermott adjudged that Ryan had been fouled, which some fans from behind the goal strongly disagreed with
Neither side did enough in the closing stages to win the game, and Dundalk will have to settle for a draw. Those who said Dundalk badly needed six points from the Christmas games will be disappointed tonight. Of course, people hadn't banked on Longford losing a few games on the trot. The Midlanders host Cork City on Saturday, and a loss there might ease some of the pain in failing to take all three points tonight. It's out of our hands for the moment.
3rd January
Dundalk vs UCD - PREVIEW
Dundalk hope to start the New Year as they finished the old one at Oriel Park tonight, with another convincing home victory. After the 3-0 win over Monaghan last week, Martin Murrays men have a chance to move level on points with Longford Town should they win tonight against UCD. Admittedly the Midlanders would have a game in hand, with Cork City visiting Flancare Park on Saturday, but pyschologically it would be a big boost for Martin Murrays men.
Dundalk will again look to strikers Gary Haylock and Martin Reilly for the inspiration to beat the students. Haylock has looked sharp since coming to the club, and the form of Reilly has improved as a consequence. They will have their work cut out to beat UCD, who are in the top half of the table on merit. They could be higher up the table only for an inability to finish off games that they are in control of. A good footballing side, with manager Paul Doolin orchestratng things in the middle of the park, the Students will seriously test the Dundalk defence. The young striking duo of Robbie Martin and Sean Finn have been a revelation, and will test the legs of Arron Callaghan and Stephen McGuinness
There will only be one change to the Dundalk starting line up tonight. James Keddy misses out through suspension, with David Crawley likely to come in to the team to replace him after returning from injury. Club captain Crawley should slot in at left back, with Stuart Connolly pushing forward to the left side of midfield. Chris Lawless is also suspended, so Cormac McArdle should come onto the bench. One report suggested McArdle could come in for Keddy in a straight swap, with Connolly keeping his place in an unchanged back four. However, it seems likely that Murray will opt for experience.
Despite all the praise bestowed on UCD, this is still a game Dundalk should be winning. The Students are vulnerable if you attack them from the start, as Shamrock Rovers showed when they went 3-0 before half time in a recent game at Belfield. The first goal in this game will be absolutely vital. Martin Murray said in a recent interview that his worst moment of the season so far was the loss against UCD in Belfield. Maybe tonight Dundalk will put things right. If Haylock and Reilly are in the same form, all three points could well go to Martin Murrays side.
1st January 2002
Martin Reilly has been rewarded for his recent run of good form, by being taken off the transfer list. Reilly has scored three goals in the last three games, including a crucial Cup winner in Galway that eventually led to him staying, and Alex Nesovic leaving.
Manager Martin Murray told website inthenet.ie, "to be honest, I never wanted him to go anyway. We all know what he is capable of when he is on song and I don’t mind being proved wrong".
""In normal circumstances I would never dream of parting with a player of Martin’s calibre. In fairness to him he has had one or two niggly injuries this season which held him back. But, maybe, putting him on the transfer list was the kick-up the backside he needed. But that’s water under the bridge now. I am happy with Martin. The slate has been wiped clean, as far as I’m concerned, and we can start again."
Striker, Reilly, who had looked low of confidence all throughout the season is relieved to be off the list, ""It came as a bit of a shock when Martin told me I was being put on the transfer list. I didn’t know what to think...... I have no desire to leave".
"I need to find some consistency again."
Reilly gets a chance to continue his recent run of good form this Thursday, when UCD visit Oriel in a game that the hosts, again, have to win to put pressure on the teams above. All home games are must wins at this stage, and the UCD one will be always looked upon as a possible three points. This is mainly because UCD are an unfashionable side, and will always be approached in this way. However, all season under the stewardship of Paul Doolin, UCD have been playing excellent football and haven't really been able to finish off games in the manner they should have. They will provide very difficult opposition on Thursday, with the onus very much on Martin Reilly and Gary Haylock to be as clinical as they were last Thursday, against significantly better opposition.
With the introduction of the Euro, fans are asked to bring the new currency to Oriel Park this Thursday. There will be changeover facilities available, but for facilities such as the bar and shops, Euro will be required. Stand admission is 10 Euros, with ground admission 7 Euros
| Premier Division - Bottom Six | Pts |
| Bohemians | 28 |
| Bray | 28 |
| Longford Town | 26 |
| Dundalk | 23 |
| Galway United | 15 |
| Monaghan United | 9 |
29th December
Dundalk go into Thursday game against UCD knowing that a win will bring them level on points with Longford Town, and within sight of a move out of the relegation zone
Longford went down 3-2 to St Patricks Athletic in Richmond Park last night, while Bray Wanderers and UCD drew 1-1 at the Carlisle Grounds. Bohemians, who are likely to pull out of trouble lost 1-0 to Shelbourne.
With Dundalk in action first against UCD next Thursday, a win there will move Martin Murrays men level on points with Longford, who have appointed a new manager in ex-Dundalk great Martin Lawlor. The appointment of Lawlor was surprising as he has been out of the game for a few years, and has yet to manage successfully at Premier Division level
When manager of Drogheda, he took them up successfully but in the top flight he struggled to sign players of quality, and his side struggled with their disclipine. Despite the fact Lawlor is a Dundalk legend, Dundalk fans will be hoping his first season at Longford is a very unhappy one. Longford remain the side that Dundalk are most likely to overtake if they are going to avoid relegation.
Next week, Dundalk host UCD on Thursday night, while Longford are visited by Cork City at the weekend.
27th December
Dundalk's' new striking partnership of Martin Reilly and Gary Haylock were on form tonight, scoring all three goals between them as the Whites got revenge on bogey side Monaghan United. After a ropey opening, it took a Martin Reilly strike on thirty seven minutes to relax the Dundalk side. The second half was a lot more fluent, with a fantastic effort from man of the match Haylock making it 2-0 and a sublime Martin Reilly volley in added on time giving the scoreline a comfortable look to it.
The win will hopefully give confidence a much needed boost ahead of the visit of UCD game next Thursday. Obviously every game is important at this stage of the season, but it's the home games where every club looks to take maximum points. Tonights win was the first home win since September, and a follow up next Thursday might actually give Dundalk confidence on their own patch
27th December
Dundalk vs Monaghan United - PREVIEW
With the Christmas celebrations over with, it's back to football matters in Oriel Park tonight. Dundalk have to start a winning run to avoid relegation, and in order to achieve that they simply must defeat bogey team Monaghan United this evening at Oriel Park.
Local rivals Monaghan have piled misery on Martin Murrays men over the past year or so, and the only win they achieved this season was a 1-0 victory over ten man Dundalk at Century Homes Park. After a morale boosting 2-2 draw with Cork last week, the Mons will travel confident of getting a result. Dundalk's recent home form offers further encouragement to Bobbys Browne men. Dundalk have not won a game at home since the 27th of September, a statistic which clearly shows why Dundalk are in the nether regions of the table
After a good week last week, culminating in an excellent second half performance against Derry, Martin Murray will be hoping his side can pick up from where they left off. It is hard to envisage Murray tinkering with the starting eleven, apart from in central defence. If Donal Broughan fails to shake off the injury he picked up in Derry, Stephen McGuinness will slot in. Should Broughan be fit, Murray will have a tough choice to make, deciding whether to recall McGuinness or keep faith with Callaghan who played solidly while McGuinness was out through suspension. Gary Haylock will partner Martin Reilly up front, and on his home debut, Haylock will be hoping to break his duck
Dundalk fans enter into all games against Monaghan with a feeling of unease. The clubs do not get on well, off the pitch relations have been strained by some dubious antics by the Monaghan directors over the past year. The local element adds a little more uncertainty to the final result. But, it's time to be bluntly honest. Monaghan are last in the League for a reason, namely, that they're not good enough to survive at this level. Dundalk believe they have what it takes to stay up, and they have the players to do so. Therefore, Dundalk simply must win this evening. They don't deserve to stay up if they don't. You have to win your home games at this level, and you have to beat the League's worst side. Dundalk haven't done so as yet, but tomorrow night they have to start doing so and start performing with some kind of assurance. Anything other than a win would be catastrophic. This time they can finally deliver
Meanwhile, Dundalk striker David Ward scored his first goal while on loan at Newry Town yesterday. Ward was on the target in the border side's home game against Ards.
23rd December
Newspapers reported yesterday that striker Alex Nesovic has left Dundalk and gone back to England, after a short and unsuccessful spell at Oriel Park. Nesovic arrived at Oriel Park, with a big reputation and big expectations after a successful time in the eircom League with double winners Bohs last season, and with Finn Harps previously. However, out of football for a while before joining, Nesovic looked completely unfit on his debut, and despite improvement in that sector, has failed to hit the target in six outings. Three Touch, as I began to call him, missed several great chances in each game he played, deciding to take at least one or two touches before shooting, often allowing defenders time to block
With the signing of Gary Haylock, it was obvious that one of the other strikers was going to lose out, and while it seemed like it would be Martin Reilly, it appears his goal on Tuesday, and subsequent retention of a starting place ahead of Nesovic in Derry on Thursday changed things. With Ger Robinson as back up, Dundalk will now rely on Haylock and Reilly for the goals to keep Dundalk in the top flight. Nesovic will go down as an expensive flop, but it is hard to blame the club for taking a chance on a player with such a good record in the past, that sadly wasn't prepared to put the effort in to regain that form at Dundalk
Meanwhile, Dundalk's chances of beating the drop received a massive boost last night when Galway defeated Longford 2-1 at Flancare Park. The result means Dundalk have closed the gap on Longford to six points, with two home games now coming up. With respect to Monaghan and UCD, these games offer a big chance of collecting six points. Should Longford even lose one of their next two games, then the gap could be reduced to as little as three points. Amazing what a difference a weekend can make. Dundalk simply must beat Monaghan next Thursday to try and start off a run. Maybe then other teams will start nervously looking over their shoulder
21st December
Dundalk travelled to Derry last night, and came away with a very creditable 1-1 draw. It was a throwback to the early games of the season where Dundalk played some decent passing football, with a second half display well worthy of at least a point. John Flanagan scored a deserved equaliser with fifteen minutes to go after Darren Kelly had put Derry in front before half time. Dundalk had half chances before the break, but stepped it up a gear in the second half and missed several excellent chances before Flanagan headed the crucial goal. Both sides had chances to win the final quarter of an hour.
This was an excellent performance by Dundalk, with the result embellished by the quality of football Dundalk played at times. Certainly, Dundalk did not look like a side that was in the relegation zone, which in many ways is frustrating for all Dundalk fans. Still, victory in the next two home games against Monaghan and UCD and then suddenly we have a chance of avoiding the drop. Dundalk must not be complacent after this result. A similar effort in the next two games will give us the six points we need to bring us back into the pack. It's all a matter of sticking with the basics of what was right tonight. Let's hope the second half tonight is the start of a revival, and not just another false dawn
Dundalk travel to cowboys Kilkenny City FC for Round Three of the FAI Cup, after the draw was made in Dublin last evening. Relations are strained, to say the least, between both officials and fans of both clubs after the finale to the 1999/2000 season. That year Kilkenny pipped Dundalk to promotion, helped in no small part by an FAI ruling which absolved Kilkenny of blame for fielding an ineligible player [despite the fact they knowingly forged his signature on his registration form], and restored the three points they had originally been deducted. The ruling was made by Milo Corcoran, a regular visitor to Buckley Park. Another figure involved in the case, Liam Reidy is now the chairman of Kilkenny City FC. Kilkennys policy seemingly being, if you can't beat the law, appoint them to your board.
The game will probably take place on Saturday 12th January in Buckley Park, and let's hope we can do the business. Time for revenge.
20th December
Derry City vs Dundalk - Preview
Dundalk travel to Derry tonight, badly in need of a result to give the team some momentum ahead of upcoming home games against Monaghan and UCD. The last time the sides met, Dundalk won 1-0 in Oriel Park, but, it has been well documented in the build up to this game that Derry have not lost a game since whereas Dundalk, who moved in to the top half of the table that night, have only won one League game since.
Tuesday's win against Galway will hopefully have given Dundalk a boost ahead of this match. Gary Haylock returns to action, after being ineligible for the Cup games and his arrival in the starting eleven will be the only likely change. Martin Murray must choose whether to reunite the Haylock-Nesovic partnership that showed promise in Richmond Park, or reward Martin Reilly for his match winning performance on Tuesday by keeping him in the starting eleven. With Nesovic still struggling to last ninety minutes, it might be more effective starting him on the bench and bringing him when Derry legs are tired in the second half.
The last time Dundalk played in the Brandywell, it was ironically on this weekend back in the relegation season of 1998/99. That night, a Tom McNulty strike gave Dundalk a 1-0 win, with Steve Williams in exceptional form.
Liam Coyle and Sean Hargan are doubtful for Derry, who will go joint top with a win tonight. Dundalk away form hasn't been too bad recently, and this will be a tight contest. However, it is hard to travel with optimism. We may have won on Tuesday, but it wasn't a performance of quality. Sad to say, Derry are likely winners of this one. Dundalk really need a win though. The fact the pressure is on us to win games like this is a damning indictment of our form since the first Derry game
Meanwhile, the third round draw of the FAI Cup takes place tonight in Dublin. It takes place at 6:30pm live on RTE's Six One News
19th December
Dundalk progressed to Round Three of the FAI Cup with a 1-0 win over Galway United in Terryland Park last night. Martin Reilly's 29th minute goal was enough to secure qualification for the next round. It's a welcome return to scoring form for Reilly, who despite missing a sitter five minutes later actually showed signs of returning to his best form. The draw for the Third Round takes place on Thursday evening at 6:30pm on RTE's Six One News
The Dundalk team will no doubt watch that draw in the Brandywell, seventy five minutes before taking the field to play Derry City as Dundalk play their second game in three days, made harder by the travelling involved. Dundalk have complained that Derry refused to reschedule this fixture, but then again, why should they ? Earlier in the season Derry had to travel to Galway on Tuesday and then to Dundalk on Thursday. They may not have complained like we did, but still, I'm sure they would have preferred the extra few days rest. I'm sure, they respected our decision to want to play on Thursday night. In fact, it is more than a touch ironic that we are complaining over a team failing to move a fixture from Thursday night. They've obviously become accustomed to playing on that night in Derry, so as the forerunners of the idea, well, we can hardly blame them.
At the moment, it seems as though the only change to the side will be the return of Gary Haylock with David Crawley still missing out through injury and Stephen McGuinness serving out the third of his three match suspension. After Reillys' performance last night, Murray may have to think harder than he may have expected, before naming his starting strikers.
18th December
Galway United vs Dundalk - PREVIEW
The FAI Cup may not be the main priority for Dundalk this season, but it would be pointless to travel to Galway and not put up a fight to stay in the competition. With one eye on the game in Derry on Thursday, each crunching challenge in this game will cause anxiety for boss Martin Murray
With Gary Haylock definitely ineligible for this one, Murray will again look to Three Touch Nesovic and one of Martin Reilly and Ger Robinson to score the goals to put Dundalk through into the draw for the next round, which takes place on Thursday. Stuart Connolly will be on standby should the injured David Crawley miss out. Aside from that, it is hard to envisage personnel changes despite the substandard display last Thursday.
The Tribesmen have signed goalie Robert Forde, and have been trying to build up publicity in Galway for this game, with the hope that a partisan crowd will make up for their lack of quality. As last Thursday, and indeed the previous meeting between the sides at Terryland Park back in November showed, Galway are indeed a very average side. Dundalk have more quality and strength in depth and should be winning this game, in fact it should never have come this far, but that's Cup football. Battling qualities will be required tomorrow, similar to those displayed in that Terryland Park encounter.
Away from home, Dundalk have actually been quite decent recently with the win in Galway followed up by the credible draw at Dalymount and then the misfortune at Richmond Park. Away from the cynics at Oriel, certain players perform better at away grounds, and for that reason it is quite reasonable to suggest Dundalk can win this game tomorrow night, in the ninety minutes as well
Then again, betting on Martin Murray's side this season would leave you with a net loss. Again, we travel in hope, but not with confidence
ORIEL WEB WILL BE REPORTING FROM BOTH GAMES IN GALWAY AND DERRY THIS WEEK, THE REPORT FOR THE GALWAY GAME WILL BE POSTED SOMETIME ON WEDNESDAY EVENING
16th December
Dundalk face a lot of travelling this week, with trips to Galway on Tuesday for the FAI Cup Second Round Replay, and then to Derry on Thursday for a significantly more important League encounter. After a dismal performance against Galway, Martin Murray's men will surely be out to make up for the errors of the first game t in the Cup replay in Terryland Park on Tuesday. However, Martin Murray will be looking to Thursdays trip to Derry as the real vital game this week, with the battle against relegation the only priority this season.
Taking that into account, Murray may not risk David Crawley again on Tuesday night. In fact, it is unclear whether Crawleys injury will have cleared up in time for either game this week. It might be an interesting experiment to try Stuart Connolly at left back in the Cup game. Elsewhere, Murray will have to decide whether to keep faith with front pair Nesovic and Reilly, or introduce Ger Robinson into the starting eleven. It is still unclear if Gary Haylock is eligible for the replay, with more news on that later today
As yet, Murray hasn't commented on the sides performance against Galway last Thursday night. The pressure is definitely on, as the boos at the final whistle showed. It will be an arduous couple of days for Dundalk, but results are badly needed to provide some festive cheer around Oriel. The mood around the ground after the Galway game, and the lack of numbers in the Lilywhite Lounge after the game only go to emphasise how important results are for the club as a whole
14th December
Dundalk face a trip to Galway on Tuesday next for an FAI Cup Second Round replay after a shocking performance in Oriel Park last night. The game finished 1-1, with Dundalk squandering an early lead and gifting the Galwegians an equaliser on half time. The Tribesman are truly an awful, awful side and Dundalk profligacy in front of goal is the reason this tie will have to be decided at the second attempt. Chance after chance was missed, but more worryingly, the chances were created by Galway errors, and not slick Dundalk football. The brand of football played was atrocious, yet some of the names on show have reputation for being excellent footballers. Why has it come to this ? Well, I really have run out of logical reasons for why this keeps happening. The players are letting the club down, but the manager is allowing them to do so. That is where the problem lies. The madness continues
Dundalk 1 Galway 1 - Match Report
Dundalk vs Galway United - PREVIEW
13th December
The FAI Cup Second Round kicks off in Oriel Park tonight, with the visit of Galway United to Oriel Park. With both sides in the relegation mire, the Cup offers a welcome alternative from the current week to week misery. With Dundalk seven points ahead of Galway in the League, and with home advantage they should be favourites to progress, especially taking into account the fact that the only team Dundalk have defeated in the last two months was tonights opponents in a League game back in November
Dundalk are still feeling the effects of last Friday nights debacle against St Pats, and will field a different looking side tonight. New signing Gary Haylock is ineligible as he was not signed in time to play in this round, while Stephen McGuinness starts a three game suspension. David Hoey, David Crawley and Liam Dunne all went off injured last week, and it is touch and go whether the latter two will make it, although it appears Hoey will be fit to start. Martin Reilly comes in to replace Haylock, while Arron Callaghan will most likely deputise for McGuinness. Johnathan Prizeman should regain his place ahead of Dunne with a potential spanner in the works if Crawley misses out through injury. Some have called for the introduction of Cormac McArdle from the reserves, but more than likely Murray would reshuffle his experienced personnel.
It would be nice to have a Cup run, but Martin Murray would certainly swap Cup progression for three points. Still, a win tomorrow night could hopefully improve morale, and provide a springboard for a prolonged campaign to avoid relegation. In truth, the Cup is all that Galway have to play for so they will be dangerous. A draw could hardly be considered a shock result, but this writer feels tomorrow night could be the night Dundalk return to winning ways
Hopefully
8th December
It was just not meant to be for Dundalk in Richmond Park last night, as a series of unfortunate circumstances combined to give St Patricks Athletic incorporating St Francis a 2-0 win. Two penalties for Pats, two Dundalk players sent off and a further three leaving through injury. You really could not make it up. Referee Paul McKeon was at the centre of attention, sending off Chris Lawless and James Keddy after the award of the first penalty and then gifting Pats another very dubious penalty which saw Martin Russell finally see off eight man Dundalk
The result was made worse tonight when Longford defeated Bohs by two goals to nil to put the Midlanders seven points ahead of Dundalk. One fears we will regret the ridiculous throwing away of three points against Longford a few weeks back at Oriel Park. A win there would have put us four points clear of them. Now Dundalk have a LOT of work to do to make up the ground with Bohs and Bray actually our closest challengers at the moment. However, it is the results of Longford and UCD that I think we should be looking out for the most
Martin Murray pulled no punches after last nights game when venting his frustration at some of the decisions in an interview on the excellent new Irish soccer site, "Inthenet.ie" . Murray told reporter Paul Buttner that "St. Pat’s won’t need arbitration to get their nine points back, the referees will give it back to them, and you can quote me on that". Murray went on to say, "The second penalty was an absolute disgrace.... I honestly believe that God is good and that we can turn things around. But these decisions ultimately cost teams points and managers their jobs."
In many ways, the Cup game against Galway is a welcome distraction. It will give new strikers Haylock and Nesovic another game to get used to each other, while the injured players from last night, Dunne, Crawley and Hoey need not be rushed back into action. Still, a Cup run is important and a win would be nice for the coffers. Priorities lie in Premier Division survival, and it's hard to know what kind of performance it will bring
Dundalk have signed striker Gary Haylock from Shelbourne. The 30 year old joins after a three month spell with Glentoran ended prematurely, despite regularly scoring goals for the Belfast side
Haylock has been back in Ireland for the past three seasons after a successful spell in Greece with Panionos. The Bradford born striker spent time at Shels back in the early 90's and was a prolific scorer. He moved up North and continued in this manner before joining Ronnie Whelan at Panionos in Greece. Haylock scored plenty as the Greeks went on a Cup Winners Cup adventure that took them as far as the quarter finals. He returned to the eircom League and big things were expected of him at Shels. However he failed to deliver there for the past two seasons but spent a period on loan up North where he again found his goalscoring touch, and after a brief return to Shels ended up moving to Glentoran in September for another loan spell. Still, many players have failed at Shels in recent years and gone on to do well elsewhere - Prizeman being one example. Haylock is match fit, and a full time player who can score goals
His move shows Dundalk are prepared to spend money to stay at this level. Every wish of Martin Murray seems to have been delivered and Haylock could wel prove to be an excellent coup. Many fans, unused to Dundalk being so active in the transfer market have expressed concern, with a fear he will be a big money flop. However, in his first game last night he showed he has a lot of ability and will certainly be an asset at this level. Let's hope it's not too late for him to make a difference
In order to finance the recent signings, Dundalk have allowed David Ward to go on loan to Newry. While rumours over why Wardy was let go have already begun to surface, it is certainly a brave move by the management. Many like to see local players getting a chance and the move will see Murray face the wrath of the local media
Unless it was for a breach of disclipine, [in which case it was the right course of action], it is a baffling decision. Ward is pacey, which is an asset around the wide confines of Oriel. He can fill in a variety of positions and he creates chances, while not taking as many as he should. He does flatter to deceive, but, he does more good than harm. All you need to do is look back over the last two seasons in particular and see how many of our goals he has been involved in. With Martin Reilly still looking no better, Ward would be a much better option to take off the bench. No doubt this story will develop over the coming weeks
St Pats/Francis vs Dundalk - Preview
Longford's win over Monaghan in Gortakeegan at the weekend means Dundalk are now four points from safety. It's a nightmare situation for Martin Murrays men after a decent start to the season, and it's really hard to comprehend how we've allowed ourselves get into such a difficult position. A catastrophic sequence of results since September, save for the odd resurgance for a game now and again have placed Dundalk in dire trouble, and in serious danger of making an immediate return to Division One
Of course the only way to stop that from happening is by winning games, and let's be honest, Dundalk haven't done much of that lately. Two wins, both 1-0, in the past thirteen games tells you all to need to know about how Dundalk have struggled this season, but it would be a lot easier to take if the players patently lacked ability. That is not the problem. Individually, a side good enough to compete in the Premier Division has been assembled. Collectively, as a team unit they have been poor, with little consistency and the absence of any kind of gameplan. Disorganised is basically the word you are looking for. In a season where there is little margin for error, that lack of organisation has been found out. Every week, you hope they will have learned from the previous weeks errors and it is with that hope, rather than confidence that we travel to Inchicore on Friday night to play St Patricks Athletic incorporating St Francis
Pats are in a false position in the table, with their nine point deduction for registration errors placing them in midtable when they could be in second position. When the sides last met, Dundalk could well have won and were unlucky to go down 2-0 after the Pats keeper denied the Dundalk attack with a series of fine saves in the opening half at Oriel Park. In many ways, that resolve sums up the kind of team Pats are - a side that can absorb pressure and then take the chances when they get them. A more competent outfit than we are at the moment. In Charles Mbabazi Livingstone they have one of the most exciting players to watch in the League, with his flair complimented by the dogged determination of Paul Osam in midfield, and the set piece genius of Martin Russell. Inchicore is a horrible venue to visit at the best of times, and in the first week of December when you are at a low ebb, it is not the best time for Martin Murrays men to go in search of points. Still, there is small consolation in the fact that Monaghan went there and got a result a few weeks back, showing it is not a fortress. However, last weekends 2-0 win against Bohs in Dalymount shows the task we are up against when we travel to "The Stadium Of Light" in desperate need of three points
No point making predictions, because this current Dundalk side is the most inconsistent and unpredictable side in the League. Sadly, it's getting to the stage where draw isn't good enough - when in normal circumstances it would be considered an excellent result. That's how serious our plight is - no one's fault but our own
1st December
Dundalk's hopes of surviving in the eircom League Premier Division took a massive blow on Thursday night when the Lilywhites went down 3-0 to Bray Wanderers at Oriel Park. In a game that could have gone either way for the first 70 minutes, it took a shocking individual error by Dundalk to gift Bray the lead. After that, heads went down and Bray added a further two as the crowds left Oriel Park early, disenchanted by what was going on. It is hard to see how Martin Murrays' men can recover from this setback. One point from a possible six in the two home games against Bray and Longford is relegation form, and it's about time people realised that. There's not much time left to salvage things
Striker Ger Robinson has signed for Dundalk until the end of season at least, after being released by English Premiership side Middlesborough. Robinson has been on loan at Oriel Park since August and has quickly become a fan favourite, scoring four goals to be the sides top scorer. However, he has been on the bench for most of the recent games and faces a battle to get back into the first eleven
Dundalk have drawn Galway in the second round of the FAI Cup. There are four all Premier Division ties in the draw, and the visit of the Tribesmen to Oriel will be one of them. Both sides are currently in relegation and the Cup will provide a welcome aside
The last time the sides met in Oriel, Galway came away with a point while the return fixture in Oriel Park ended in a 1-0 win for Dundalk. The game takes place in two weeks time
26th November
It may not feel like it, but with the season being hurried this season to accomodate the switch to summer soccer, the Premier Division campaign is past half way. Taking that into account, the visit of Bray Wanderers to Oriel Park this Thursday night will go along way to deciding the future of this Dundalk side come April
Longford's win on Saturday against Bray [3-2, from 2-0 down] has put Dundalk back into the automatic relegation zone, on 19 points. Longford now sit on 20, with Bray on 21 points with the three teams who fought out the promotion battle in 1999/2000 now fighting out a survival battle two seasons on. Obviously, the visit of Bray to Oriel on Thursday night is a massive game for both sides. A win would move Dundalk out of the automatic relegation zone, and should results go our way this week, could even see Dundalk up to 8th by the weeks end
With UCD having lost a few on the trot, there is a chance that they too could be pulled into the relegation battle which is no longer the Longford vs Dundalk battle some predicted a few weeks back. Champions Bohs, and St Pats are not far away either, but Bohs will surely pull away from trouble, and Pats will probably get six of their deducted nine points back
On Thursday night, Dundalk will be out to avenge the 5-1 defeat by Bray in the Carlisle Grounds earlier in the season. That night Bray got all the luck, and I firmly believe that is the evening that has caused our fortunes to descend downwards with Martin Murray starting to fiddle around with his team. Thankfully, he appears to have got back to the formula from early in the season after a prolonged period of messing around with the team after the Bray loss. In fact, nine of the players who started that 5-1 trashing will probably line out on Thursday night, with the front pair of Alex Nesovic and David Ward the only two who didn't start that game back in early October. Martin Murray will probably name an unchanged line up from the team which drew against Bohs last Friday, with a bit of continuity being established in the side
Bray will be smarting from conceding a two goal lead to lose in Longford last Saturday, and will be out to make amends for that display. They are going to be a very tough nut to crack, and are well capable of scoring goals which will test the resolve of the Dundalk defence. In truth, Dundalk will probably have to score at least twice if they are going to win this game, and goalscoring has been a problem recently. Nesovic, as a professional player should have improved on his fitness by Thursday to provide more help to David Ward up front. Bray are a decent footballing side, and if Dundalk start passing the ball on the deck it could well be a very entertaining game. At this stage of the season, a win is necessary. If Dundalk are going to get the win they need, they will have to take the chances they get. Maybe on Thursday they will get it right
26th November
The draw for the Second Round of the FAI Cup takes place today [Monday], with Dundalk hoping to fare better in the competition this season after the embarrassment of last years exit to Portmarnock. The draw takes place live on the 6:00 news on RTE One, probably towards the end of the show around 6:45ish
To see the details and reaction to the draw, visit Dundalk Talk during the week. Oriel Web will be updated on Saturday
24th November
Dundalk went to the home of double winners Bohemians last night, and came away with a well deserved point. Bohs may be a team in relative disarray at the moment, but it is still a tough place to go to as they have many players who can turn a game in an instant. John Flanagan opened the scoring on 28 minutes, but Glenn Crowe equalised with 18 minutes to go after a prolonged period of Bohs pressure. Both teams had chances at the finale to take all three points. Central defenders Broughan and McGuinness were outstanding for Dundalk, with all players putting in a big effort
Most talk regarding the club this week has been over the controversial transfer listing of five first team players. While it was expected that players would have to go, some of the names on the list have surprised people. The listing of John Ryan is hardly a surprise, and given the number of options in midfield, Liam Dunne is not a surprise listing. Stuart Connolly is on the list despite not getting a chance to play - there is something strange going on there. Hero from last season Martin Reilly is on the list as well, completing his dramatic fall from grace. It's a terrible shame. He got us to this division and it would be brilliant to see him find that form again. Last but not least, and definitely the most controversial [and also idiotic] is the transfer listing of David Ward
Having seen all our games this season, it staggers me how the manager can see fit to list Wardy. It seems to be a case of scapegoating Wardy, as is often the case. Last year, he was the first player to be taken off in most games, and now it continues to this. There are things about Wardy that annoy people. He appears to have a casual attitude to the game, even in the way he moves around the field. He is awful on one on one chances. For a striker, it is admittedly a big problem. However, he offers so much in other departments. He creates most of our goals, he is young, he is showing a lot more desire and was really starting to get the confidence to run at Premier Division defenders. Then why transfer list him ? In the long term it is madness. I respect the signing of Alex Nesovic - it is an excellent move. However, he is 29, and he isn't prone to long stays at the clubs he moves to. David Ward is only going to get better, and if we sell him to another Premier club it will come back and haunt us, time and time again
Let's just hope someone sees sense soon. Wardy simply must stay, if he goes, then this club will be going back on previous statements made about long term vision and planning with our youth structure
18th November
Dundalk squandered a glorious opportunity to pull four points clear of the automatic relegation zone last night, by throwing away a 1-0 lead against ten men Longford. In scarcely believable circumstances, Longford had keeper Stephen O'Brien sent off after 17 mins for a professional foul on David Ward. With no sub keeper on the bench, defender Paul McNally went in goal but could not prevent David Crawley from putting Dundalk in front. After that, Dundalk missed a series of chances to put the game beyond all doubt. However, those chances were wasted and Longford won a penalty on 70 minutes following an innocuous foul by Stephen McGuinness. Stuart Holt scored from the spot
In the final minutes Dundalk were reduced to long shots as they failed to create enough clearcut openings to score a winning goal. The failure to seriously test the stand in keeper in this period could be costly when the final League table is decided next April
Dundalk have signed former Finn Harps and Bohemians striker Alex Nesovic. He made his debut in last nights game against Longford, but looked short of match fitness and came off early in the second half. However, when he regains fitness he will be a serious addition to the side. The Bradford native arrived in the eircom League last Summer, and joined Finn Harps. He scored goals for the Donegal side for the first few months of the season but left in controversial circumstances. Harps were in serious money trouble at the time, but certain sources suggest a disclipinary problem may have forced his exit from the Ballybofey side
He moved onto Bohemians, where he played an important role in Roddy Collins' double winning side. In the season run in he scored several goals, most notably in the significant 4-2 win over Shelbourne that eventually proved crucial. However, it all went sour at Dalymount for Nesovic after Collins was sacked in the Summer. He had a disagreement with new manager Pete Mahon before Bohs started on a Champions League campaign, and parted company with the club. Several clubs expressed an interest in signing Nesovic, and he looked likely to team up with former boss Roddy Collins at Carlisle. However, last week he seemed set to return to Bohs, with only a dog bite on his face delaying him from coming over to discuss terms and patch up his differences with Mahon. That fell by the wayside, and Dundalk stepped in. The deal was all but concluded on Tuesday night, when at the co-op AGM it was announced a big signing was on the way. On Wednesday, Nesovic was unveiled as that striker. The move has prompted outrage amongst Bohs fans, which is a compliment to the ability of the big man
Nesovic has expressed his desire to rid himself of the badboy tag which follows him around. However, he is set to be the focus of most of the attention ahead of next Fridays trip to Dalymount Park to play Bohemians. Ironically, if Nesovic was to play a part in an unlikely Dundalk victory, it could to the dismissal of the manager he had a run in with - Pete Mahon
This is another big signing, a player of Premier Division calibre. Failure to stay up with this squad would be a disgrace, given the resources at the managers disposal
There was sadness at Dundalk FC this week, when former chairman Enda McGuill died aged 71 after a lengthy illness. McGuill had been involved with Dundalk from the early 70's right up until the takeover of the co-op back in 2000. Deepest sympathies to his wife and family
His finest achievement in his time at Dundalk was probably securing the services of Jim McLaughlin as manager back in the 70's
The end of his tenure in Oriel Park may not have gone the way he would have wanted, and many younger fans such as myself probably don't remember him in the same terms as many of the older fans who may have dealt with him during his spell in Oriel Park. The tributes coming from all levels of football in Ireland go to show the high esteem in which he was held, especially in the FAI.
FAI chief Brendan Menton said this week upon hearing of the death. "He was the driving force in Dundalk football for many years and was an excellent representative for the club and an astute administrator. We all mourn his passing".
May he rest in peace
Follow the buildup to the Longford game on Dundalk Talk. Oriel Web will not be updated until 17/11
9th November
A James Keddy strike in the 74th minute gave Dundalk victory in Galway tonight, ending a disastrous run of five games without a win, and also taking the pressure off manager Martin Murray. In a game that always looked like it would be decided by one goal, Dundalk raised their game after the interval to put Galway under pressure. Keddy had a glorious chance to put Dundalk in front shortly into the half, but eventually took his chance on seventy four minutes
The win sets Dundalk up for a crucial game against Longford in Oriel Park next Thursday. A win there would put Dundalk four points ahead of the Midlanders, and open up a bit of daylight between ourselves and the automatic relegation zone. Longford are on good form lately, taking four points from two games against Shels and Derry. It is sure to be a fiery encounter. The last time the sides met, ten man Longford were unlucky not to take all three points in a 2-2 draw. Hopefully the Dundalk performance on Thursday will be better. Martin Murray said before the Galway game that his side had to take six points from the next two matches. The first part of that target has been achieved. Let's hope the job is completed on Thursday
5th November
Martin Murray takes his Dundalk side to Galway on Friday, knowing that defeat could spell the end of his reign in charge of the club. Seven losses in nine games, and no away wins since the beginning of September means the pressure is on to get a result in Terryland Park. Galway are in eleventh place in the League, and will move within two points of Dundalk if they were to win on Friday night. Under new manager Tony Mannion, they won their first game 8-0 against Monaghan. Despite a subsequent loss against Bohs, they will be confident of securing a victory when Dundalk travel West
Dundalk are on the lookout for players, and could add another to their squad before Friday. However, manager Murray has plenty of resources at his disposal as it is. Stuart Connolly could finally make a return to competitive action, but it's hard to predict what the team will be. Donal Broughan returns from suspension, and will hopefully go into central defence ahead of Callaghan, instead of coming in at right back. It is hard to know if Noel Melvin will retain his place in central midfield, but with Flanagan, Connolly, Dunne, Hoey and Lawless all available, Martin Murray isn't short on possible replacements
It's a big game for Dundalk, a win is absolutely essential at the moment to stop the worrying trend of results [or lack thereof]. It is hard to be optimistic however, as recent experience has shown Dundalk to be pretty useless on the road. Galway will be confident of a victory.The truth is, unless Martin Murray gets his team playing as they did at the start of the season, they will get that victory
The Travel Club bus leaves from Oriel Park at 2pm
4th November
Angry Dundalk fans called for manager Martin Murray to resign, after another loss, this time by three goals to one at home to Cork City this afternoon. It is Dundalks' seventh loss in ninth games, and sixth game in a row without a win. Aside from two consolation goals against UCD and Cork, the Lilywhites have failed to score when it counts in five League games
Despite a promising enough first half display, Dundalk went in at half time 1-0 down to Cork. However, the second half display was shocking, and the substitution of best player, Johnathan Prizeman which was widely booed was the first sign things were going downhill. Cork added two goals shortly afterwards. Sub Ger Robinson added a consolation, and his celebrations reflected his disgust at being left out of the side by manager Martin Murray. A dismal day for Dundalk who find themselves in the relegation zone. After a promising start to the season, Dundalk find themselves in serious trouble and facing an uphill struggle in the fight against relegation. The team is a sorry mess, and that's despite the countless signings the manager has made. Murray has had his chance, but things are getting worse despite the playing squad at his disposal. Credit to him for assembling it, but he can't get the best from them. As a manager, that is failure. Seven losses in nine games, no meaningful League goals in the last five outings. Not good enough. He's got to go - quickly
4th November
It may seem to be a bit early in the season to say a game is "must win", but todays visit of Cork City to Oriel Park falls under that category. Coming off a disastrous run of six losses in eight games, Martin Murrays' side are under pressure to get a win to silence their critics.
After a summer of expectation, and a promising start to the season, it has all gone haywire. Many are pointing the finger at the manager, with some curious and inconsistent team selections. The continual inclusion of John Ryan, the deployment of Donal Broughan in a right back slot as opposed to central defence where he has been excellent , and the treatment of players like Hoey and Flanagan, are decisions Dundalk fans simply cannot understand
Cork Citys' season is completely in contrast with Dundalk, as in the last month and a half or so, their fortunes have improved, lifting them from the depths of the table up into the top half. The Lilywhites took all three points from Cork in early September, courtesy of a James Keddy strike three minutes from time. However, the following week Cork went and defeated St Pats 3-1 in Richmond Park, and haven't looked back since. Along the way, they have unearthed a new star in young striker Colin P O'Brien whose form has earned him a call up to the Irish under 19 squad
They are a formidable outfit, with the experience of Coughlan and Daly, and the trickery of the likes of Ollie Cahill, a player who would have joined Dundalk were it not for John Hewitt deciding he wasn't good enough.
Stuart Connolly played for the under 21's in their 2-0 win over Bohs yesterday, and could make a long awaited return to action, albeit, from the subs bench. Martin Murray has to make changes from recent weeks, and the inclusion of Hoey at right back, which would see Broughan revert to centre back would be a popular switch. If David Crawley returns from injury, James Keddy should push up to a preferred left midfield role. This would allow David Ward to return up front alongside Martin Reilly, with Ger Robinson likely to start from the bench. The centre of midfield will be interesting, with several players competing for the spot. Noel Melvin may drop to the bench, with several players vying for a central midfield slot alongside Ciaran Kavanagh
It really is time for Martin Murrays side to get back to the formula that worked at the start of the season. Passing football opened up some of the best sides in the country, and can do so again. This team has so much ability, but looks a sorry mess at the moment. Thankfully, home form is still reasonably good and Dundalk can probably take a point from this game. Yet, with Longford defeating Shels last night, Dundalk now find themselves in the automatic relegation zone. To get out of it, they need to win. Martin Murray finds himself under pressure that he really shouldn't be, given the players at his disposal. Failure to get the best from these players again tomorrow, and the fans will really begin to ask questions. Let's hope it doesn't come to that, and Dundalk get the three points necessary to get the season back on track
3rd November
Dundalk bowed out of the League Cup on Wednesday last, with a terrible display in losing 2-1 to Drogheda. Ger Robinson put Dundalk in front after five minutes after a cross by Prizeman. Robinson was only playing due to a suspension to John Ryan, and his goal makes you wonder why he has been on the bench so much recently. However, Dundalk did not play like a side in control. With James Keddy at left back, Donal Broughan moved back to right midfield, and Melvin played in central midfield, it was hardly surprising. A mistake by Broughan led to Dan O'Connor equalising from a free kick before half time. Seven minutes into the second half, after a foul by Donal Broughan, Droghedas Robbie Coyle was sent off for retaliation. However, from the resulting free kick Noel Melvin made a hash of an attempted clearance and O'Connor blasted home his second
Dundalk pushed forward looking for an equaliser. Liam Dunne and Chris Lawless were introduced, with Prizeman, not surprisingly one of those taken off.Martin Reilly was having an offnight and missed several chances. In the end, ten men Drogheda fully deserved their win. It was shocking stuff from Dundalk. Directionless, inspirationless, and in the end, fruitless. Questions must be asked why every away performance is like this. One wonders why a chance to experiment was passed up, the likes of Flanagan, Sharkey and other fringe squad members didn't get a chance to play, and one wonders when they will. If Keddy at left back, Broughan at right back, and Melvin at centre midfield is what Murray thinks will get Dundalk out of this mess, he is sure to be disappointed. The biggest losers from that situation are the three players themselves
* Site will not be updated until Saturday 3rd November at the earliest. Apologies for any inconvenience
29th October
Dundalk are back into action on Wednesday night, when they travel to United Park to play Drogheda in the First Round of the League Cup. Drogheda lie second in Division One, and have former Dundalk players Eoin Mullen, Padraig Gollogley, Derek Delany and on loan Anto Reilly in their playing squad at the moment. Normally, a local derby would be anticipated greatly, but both sides are currently involving in crucial battles in their respective decision, and this may be looked upon as more of a distraction
Martin Murray used last years League Cup to field a second string squad, and could well do the same this Wednesday night. Donal Broughan and John Ryan miss out through suspension, so the likes of Noel Melvin and Ger Robinson could get a start. John Flanagan, John Sharkey and Chris Lawless are amongst others that will hope to feature
See Dundalk Talk during the week for report and comments
Sunday's match against Cork City [Oriel Park, 3:00pm] is crucial for Dundalk. A win is essential, but it will be tough against a resurgent City side. Liam Murphy's men will be looking for a win, after conceding injury time equalisers in their last two matches against Bohemians and Bray. Donal Broughan will be out through suspension for Dundalk, and Arron Callaghan may well partner Stephen McGuinness. Who knows what team selection Martin Murray will go for, if James Keddy is fit. A reshuffle seems likely to be on the cards, with perhaps John Ryan missing out. With only one win out of the last seven matches, the pressure is on Martin Murrays men to deliver a result in front of an expectant home crowd
27th October
Dundalk slumped to a shocking 4-0 defeat against Shelbourne last night, and the pressure is now on manager Martin Murray to get results after an abysmal run of five losses in seven games. In truth, this current run of form has not been one of bad luck, it's been one of incompetence. This Dundalk side has been expensively assembled, and performed very well in the early part of the season. There is no doubt they are good enough to compete at this level. It's up to the management to maximise the potential of the squad by putting out the best players, and getting them playing to their strengths. The players also have to perform to the best of their ability. Neither is happening, and safety from at least a playoff looks a long way away
Galway's 8-0 win over Monaghan will let people know that there is more than one automatic relegation place to avoid, and Longford aren't a bad side. A titanic battle lies ahead. Four points from twenty one games is relegation form. Three goals from seven games is simply dire.
18th October
Dundalk and Shamrock Rovers played out a 0-0 draw at Oriel Park, the kind of draw that both sides will look back on as a game they could have won. In front of another large home crowd, Dundalk, as expected, lifted their game after the shocking performances against Monaghan and UCD. On this occasion, it was not enough to win. Martin Reilly had two second half chances to win the game, but couldn't convert them
Next Friday night, Dundalk travel to Tolka Park to play Shelbourne. The previous meeting between the sides finished 1-1 back in August. That evening in Oriel Park was significant as Ger Robinson scored his first for the club. He is likely to be on the bench for this encounter. James Keddy could hopefully return from injury to play against his former club, and that would be a significant boost for the balance of the side. If he does, he would replace David Ward on the left, with the latter more than likely moving up front alongside Martin Reilly. Stephen McGuinness returns from suspension, and could replace Arron Callaghan in central defence if manager Martin Murray opts to keep Donal Broughan at centre half. The alternative is moving Broughan to right back, and on the evidence of recent games that would do more harm than good
There should be a large travelling support in Tolka Park, and a draw would be a good result for Martin Murrays men. It will be an interesting evening in North Dublin
Dundalk vs Shamrock Rovers - Preview
Table toppers Shamrock Rovers visit Oriel Park this Thursday night, and will see this game as a chance to extend their lead at the top of the table. Damien Richardson's men have been a revelation this season, and as last weeks 4-0 demolition of Bray Wanderers proved, are in no mood to relinquish the top spot
Despite the shocking performances away to Monaghan and UCD, Dundalk have a habit for raising their game against the big clubs, and therefore Rovers will not be expecting an easy time of it. It should bring another large crowd to the Carrick venue, with the Hoops likely to bring a large travelling support, in contrast with their paltry home support when the teams last met in Tolka back in August. That night, Dundalk were the better side for most of the game, but still went down 1-0 to a sloppy goal. At the time, Rovers looked a poor side but have obviously improved since
Still, Dundalk have the capabilities to cause an upset. Stephen McGuinness misses out due to suspension, and ironically, that could force a decision on Martin Murray that needs to be taken to restore the balance of the team. Donal Broughan needs to be moved from the right back slot, and will more than likely move into centre half to replace McGuinness, with David Hoey coming back in at right back. In midfield, if John Flanagan returns from a knock picked up last week he may come in on the right side with Johnathan Prizeman moving into the centre at the expense of either Liam Dunne or Ciaran Kavanagh. James Keddy is unlikely to be fit enough on the left so that could mean David Ward continuing there, with two from Ger Robinson, John Ryan and the hopefully fit Martin Reilly, starting up front. Chris Lawless is also on the periphery of the first team, and could start in midfield to allow Ward move up front
Regardless of that, it is clear that Dundalk will need to return to passing football to beat Rovers. Scully and Palmer in the central defence would tower over whatever strikers Dundalk picked, and therefore the best way to beat Rovers is by keeping the ball on the deck and causing them problems. Martin Murrays' side have a habit of bouncing back from poor away performances to produce brilliant home ones. Already this year, the poor performance in Longford was followed up by the 3-1 win over Bohemians. Beating lower half of the table teams is a problem for this side, and Rovers don't come into that category. Dundalk need to win this game, or risk falling further behind the mid table group. The Lilywhites are capable of doing so, and it wouldn't be a surprise if they did win, despite what subsequent media reports may say
13th October
Dundalk's season reached its lowest point on Thursday night, with a tame 2-1 loss to UCD. It was a flattering scoreline, as Dundalk only scored in the last minute courtesy of Chris Lawless. It was the worst display this season , and questions must be asked about manager Martin Murray and his team selections, plus the tactics [or lack thereof]
The result leaves Dundalk in the playoff spot, and the dreaded relegation word must now be discussed. Dundalk have the players to take them out of this position, but sadly, one queries whether the organisation or management is there. Supporters are turning out in great numbers, home and away and they deserve better. Thursday's display was so bad, it was embarrassing and much of the good work involved in promoting the club over the past 18 months could be wasted if the performance is repeated this Thursday night against Shamrock Rovers
Sort it out, Martin
In other news, Murray has two players from Premiership club Sunderland on trial over the next two weeks. Keeper Adam Dowie and right back Gareth Mordy will be in town. Dowie will have to be a decent passer to replace John Connolly in the side, as he is the focal point of most Dundalk passing moves
7th October
Different name, same ground, similar misery. Century Homes Park, formerly known as Gortakeegan hasn't been a happy hunting ground for Dundalk in recent seasons. Looking back on the history between the clubs, it was almost inevitable Monaghan would score their first victory of the season today against Dundalk. And so it happened, with a little help from the referee. Darren McKenna's goal ten minutes from time was enough to give Monaghan the win against Dundalk, who played the whole second half with ten men. John Ryan was sent off in controversial circumstances before the interval, with Monaghan defender Mick Scully having more to do with the sending off than the referee or linesman
After the first round of fixtures. Dundalk have failed to beat any of the sides below them in the League, and that is the reason this side finds themselves in the bottom half. It simply must be eradicated from now on, and the visit to UCD this coming Thursday gives an immediate chance to set things right in the second round of fixtures. In the first meeting between the sides this year, Dundalk's first game on their return to the Premier Division, the result was 1-1 with David Ward on target for Dundalk. That same player returns from suspension and should come straight into the side on Thursday night. Elsewhere, Martin Murray will await progress on injured players James Keddy and Martin Reilly before deciding a starting lineup. With Keddy missing, the lack of width in the side is frightening and with that in mind Murray has been linked with ex St Pats left winger Padraig Drew. The former Everton youth can play predominantly on the left side of midfield or up front. He is back in the country after a spell in the USA and would be a decent addition to the squad
Dundalk have to start winning games like this to convince fans they have the professionalism to avoid relegation. Dropping points at home to UCD and Galway, and away to Monaghan is simply unacceptable when you compare them to the performances where Dundalk outplayed Shels and Bohemians. Thursday night offers a chance to repay those fans who endured the performance against Monaghan today. It's time to start picking up points in the bread and butter games, to use a well worn cliche. As the League table begins to develop it is games like this which will decide which half of the table, and which battle Dundalk will be in as the season goes on
1st October
Monaghan United vs Dundalk ..PREVIEW
With the unsurprising absence of Drogheda from the Premier Division, Dundalk's local rivals this season are Monaghan United. Next Sunday, Dundalk travel to Century Homes Park to lock horns with the bottom side in the Division which promises to be a fiery encounter for several reasons
Relations between the two clubs are not good after last years' events during the foot and mouth crisis. With Dundalk fans not allowed to travel to the crunch First Division game in the then named Gortakeegan, it appeared that only Dundalk directors would be there to support the team. However, Monaghan blocked all Dundalk officials from entering the ground, including chairman Des Denning, an incident which angered all at Oriel Park. That wasn't the first incident between the sides last year, as earlier in the campaign members of the Monaghan board had to be removed from the season ticket section in Oriel Park with considerable difficulty : the guards were almost called in
As a result of those events, it is an understatement to say there is an edge to this fixture. To make things worse for Dundalk, Monaghan won 4-0 on the day that the directors were kept out, so on their return to the newly named Century Homes Park venue, Dundalk players who played that day will be out to exact revenge.
The two teams have had contrasting, but some would say unsurprising starts to their Premier Division campaigns. Monaghan were unable to find the money to add to their squad in the Summer, and as a result sit bottom of the League without a victory to their name. Dundalk find themselves in a midtable position after adding to the squad during the Summer, and have generally made a good impression in the Premier Division so far. This fixture marks the end of the first series of fixtures in the League, and the league table afterwards will make interesting reading and give a frank assessment of how things are going for each club. A win in this game could leave Dundalk sitting nicely in the top half of the table, which would be a more than satisfactory start to the season
Martin Murray will have to plan without David Ward, who misses out through suspension. If Martin Reilly returns from injury, he will start, and the choice will be between John Ryan and Ger Robinson as to who partners him. Stuart Connolly is also battling to return from injury and into first team contention, with Ciaran Kavanagh, Liam Dunne and James Keddy also carrying knocks. Should Connolly or Kavanagh return, then Murray will have to seriously think about his team selection. He may decide to stick with Arron Callaghan and Stephen McGuinness in central defence, but he could well move Broughan back in there instead of Callaghan which would see David Hoey revert to right back and either Connolly, Kavanagh or Dunne moving into midfield
It promises to be an interesting game, but it is a game that Dundalk should win given the resources at their disposal. Monaghan have been a bogey team in the past, but it's about time Dundalk laid that bogey to rest. Starting from next Sunday
28th September
Dundalk got back to winning ways last night with a 1-0 win over Derry City in Oriel Park. Sub Ger Robinson's 50th minute strike was the difference between the sides, but a penalty save from John Connolly with four minutes to go from Tommy McCallion ensured the score stayed that way. In front of another very good crowd, it was a tension filled final half hour, but with several of the old heads producing heroic performances, Dundalk held on for a win
Unlucky Dundalk went down 2-0 to St Pats on Monday night. The Lilywhites dominated the opening period with some good football with Pats keeper Seamus Kelly preventing John Prizeman on two occasions. James Keddy also had an effort cleared off the line. However on 38 minutes Paul Osam pressured John Connolly from a corner and the ball fell to Charles Mbabazi Livingstone who blasted home from four yards
David Ward hit the post on 53 minutes but the home sides cause was not helped when Stephen McGuinness was sent off for a second bookable offence on 66 minutes. Gavin Doyle scored on the counter attack to make it 2-0 ten minutes from time
Due to "technical difficulties" the match report for this game is now missing
*This page will not be updated this week, for the outcome of the Pats match plus he build up and result of the Derry match on Thursday, see the main page
23rd September
Dundalk vs St Patricks Athletic incorporating St Francis PREVIEW
After the embarassment of shipping five goals to Bray on Friday night, Dundalk have a chance to get back on track in front of an expected large crowd in Oriel Park tomorrow night, when St Patricks Athletic [inc. St Francis] come to town. Dundalk performances against the other three big Dublin clubs this year have all been good, with Martin Murrays side having a tendency to raise their game for these kind of matches
Stephen McGuinness plays for the first time against the club he spent four years at. Donal Broughan endured a torrid time at Pats and will be out to silence his former critics. A third ex Pats player, Martin Reilly is likely to miss out through injury. Pats have had a decent start to the season, currently on fifteen points, one behind co leaders Bohs and Shamrock Rovers. However, a possible nine point deduction for not properly registering midfielder Paul Marney is hanging over their heads, and could well change the direction of their season completely. On Friday night they held Bohs to a 1-1 draw, with their two previous games yielding wins over Bray and Monaghan. Ugandan midfielder Charles Mmabazi Livingstone will be interesting to watch, and the front pair of Liam Kelly and Ger McCarthy are likely to cause problems. However, McGuinness and Broughan, the likely centre half partnership despite the Bray defeat might be able to use their knowledge of Pats to keep them at bay. Shelbourne and Bohs have already visited Oriel this year, and neither came away with victory.
If Reilly does miss out, Martin Murray will have to choose between David Ward and John Ryan to partner Ger Robinson up front. After seeing how ineffective Ryan was on Friday night in Bray, in contrast with Ward's performance against Bohs last Tuesday then there surely can only be one decision. Ward must start
Pats' are a hard working formidable side with some talented match winning players. They will provide a big threat from set pieces, and John Connolly may well be tested on corners and free kicks. Despite that, the home side with a big crowd behind them have it in them to produce another big performance. This is potentially another great night in Oriel, it's now up to the players to deliver
22nd September
A rampant Bray Wanderers side hammered Dundalk 5-1 last night at the Carlisle Grounds, to bring the Lilywhites crashing down to earth after the superb 3-1 win against Bohs on Tuesday night [Match Report here]. At the start of the week most Dundalk fans would have taken three points from the two games, but the manner of the win on Tuesday night brought many Dundalk fans to the seaside venue hoping for another win. Despite the visitors dominating the game in large spells, Bray ran out worthy winners due to their clinical finishing, although the final score flatters them. In truth, it was the beating that Dundalk's performance against Longford last week deserved.
Jason Byrne was the Bray hero scoring a hatrick, the first of which came on 14 minutes. A deflected Thomas Morgan shot and a Paul keegan goal courtesy of a howler by John Connolly gave Bray a scarcely deserved 3-0 lead after thirty minutes. Dundalk had actually been the better team in that period. Donal Broughan scored from the spot on half time. After the break Dundalk piled on the pressure but with their first attack of the half Byrne made it 4-1. He added a fifth in injury time
Dundalk vs Bohemians
..Tuesday .....Oriel Park
Bray Wanderers vs Dundalk ..Friday ....Carlisle Grounds
Dundalk face a crucial week of action in their Premier Division campaign this week, with games against Bohemians and Bray Wanderers. League Champions Bohs visit Oriel Park on Tuesday night in a game that should draw a large crowd to the Carrick Road venue. With Stephen McGuinness suspended, the Dundalk rearguard will be tested by Glenn Crowe and Trevor Molloy. Arron Callaghan returns from suspension, but is unlikely to forge his way into the starting eleven. Liam Dunne plays out his last game before a two match ban, and his place could be threatened by John Flanagan. David Hoey will also contest with John Whyte for the right back role
Bohs are without star midfielder Kevin Hunt, which is a boost, but they should provide a serious test. The Lilywhites will have to be on top form to avoid defeat, and must avoid some of the comical errors which gifted Longford chances in Flancare Park on Saturday night. A good first half performance is also required, which has sadly been lacking in recent games
The game on Friday against Bray is arguably more important, with the Seagulls having a tough start to the season and could well be in a battle with Dundalk as the season goes on to avoid finishing in the bottom four. Dundalk's last two trips to Bray in the 1999/2000 season resulted in victory, but the complexion of both sides is completely different now. Liam Dunne misses out through suspension, but Stephen McGuinness will be back for this game. Depending on how the midweek games go, and affect the confidence of the various sides, then this is definitely a game that the Lilywhites have a realistic chance of winning. Nothing worse than a draw is required in this difficult run of fixtures
For a match report of the Bohs game, see the main page on Wednesday
16th September
Martin Reilly scored his first goal of the season five minutes from time in Longford last night, to earn Dundalk a 2-2 draw in Flancare Park. Again, Dundalk again struggled against a side down to ten men after Keith O'Connor was sent off just before half time with the score at 1-1. Ten man Longford deserved to go 2-1 ahead on 75 minutes through Eric Lavine. However, Martin Reilly grabbed a goal five minutes from time and Dundak finally piled on the pressure in the final five minutes and it took a great save from Stephen O'Brien to deny Jonathan Prizeman at the death
Earlier, Prizeman had scored on 21 minutes to cancel out Lavine's opening goal. Tensions were heated and it was no surprise that a man was sent off. Referee Damien Hancock failed to keep a hold on the game, which was threatening to spiral out of control before half time
14th September
Longford Town vs Dundalk - PREVIEW
Noel Melvin could well begin his second spell at Dundalk with a start in Longford tomorrow evening. With Stephen McGuinness and Arron Callaghan suspended, Melvin could well slot into the centre of defence alongside Donal Broughan. However, with Stuart Connolly fit again, David Crawley could move into centre half with Connolly slotting in at the unfamiliar position of left back. Martin Reilly also returns from injury, and will probably partner Ger Robinson up front
For Melvin, it is an amazing turnaround as previous attempts to lure him back to the club have failed. However, he was an interested spectator at several Dundalk games over the last few years and has maintained his interest in the club. Some have doubts about his lack of match fitness, and it would be a tough baptism of fire for him tomorrow night. Yet, it seems a more logical option to play Melvin and restore some balance to the team, instead of playing Crawley and Connolly in unfamiliar positions. Reilly coming into the starting eleven is likely to be the only change aside from the defensive reshuffle. After missing two games through injury, Reilly will be keen to prove he can still score goals in the Premier Division, after a disappointing start to his campaign
Longford are currently level with Dundalk on six points, and are ahead of us in the table due to having two more goals scored. However, the Midlanders have lost three games already, in contrast with Dundalk who lost one. Longford have been a revelation over the last few seasons, emerging from the depths of Division One to the Premier Division, an FAI Cup final and a European campaign. Their ground, formerly Strokestown Road has been renamed Flancare Park and is now an all seater stadium. They are an example for all struggling clubs to follow
Tomorrow nights game should be an interesting one, as on paper the sides look evenly matched. Players such as Alan Kirby have caused trouble for Dundalk in the past, and he is one of several Longford players who can trouble the patched up Dundalk defence. However, Prizeman and Keddy have been lively all season, and if Martin Reilly returns to form, and Ger Robinson capitalises on some of the chances that fall to him then there is no reason for Dundalk to fear what lies ahead as they travel to the midlands town
On the week that is in it, it seems almost insensitive to talk about football. It's been a harrowing week for all of us, even if you don't know anyone that is in America. At times like this, football is a helpful distraction to take people's minds off what could well unfold over the coming weeks. Should the trip to Longford end in defeat tomorrow night, all disappointment should be put in perspective
11th September
Former favourite Noel Melvin looks set to return to Dundalk this week, to solve the defensive crisis. Melvin retired after the 1999/2000 season despite being short of 30 years of age. The pressures of travelling combined with work pressures and otherwise forced his hand after the side failed to win promotion. However, Melvin has been back in training recently with Monaghan, and played a few games with their reserves
With Dundalk badly needing a centre half for this weekend, it now seems likely Melvin will step into the breach. In his final season with the club Melvin scooped the Player Of The Year award, and was a hugely popular and influential figure. Longford is the scene of perhaps his greatest moment for Dundalk when his last minute overhead kick grabbed Dundalk a point in a promotion six pointer, after Melvin had made his way forward from centre half
10th September
Dundalk have a hectic spell which includes four games in nine days coming up, and have not been helped by suspension problems. Stephen McGuinness is suspended for this Saturdays trip to Longford, and the home game against Bohemians on Tuesday. Arron Callaghan is also suspended for the Longford game. With Bryan McCrystal set to miss most of the rest of the season, Dundalk have only one recognised centre half in the squad, Donal Broughan. Therefore Martin Murray has admitted he needs to sign a central defender quickly
Meath GAA star John Cullinane has been linked with a move to Oriel. Cullinane plays non League football, but will not be available to move until Meath's All Ireland final with Galway on September 23
Murray has also been linked with Colin Hawkins, the ex-Pats defender currently with Doncaster but that is too big a deal to take place in the short term, and should the player come home it is more than likely he will join one of the big Dublin clubs, with Shelbourne definitely interested
No other names have been mentioned, but a development in this area is likely to occur over the next few days. Murray may opt to revert David Crawley to centre half and bring in Stuart Connolly at left back if he returns from injury in time
Liam Dunne will be suspended for the away game to Bray on September 21 and the home game against St Patricks Athletic on September 24 after reaching eleven penalty points. Thankfully, Dundalk have plenty of other options for centre midfield, as opposed to the problem at centre half
7th September
Dundalk v Galway - Match Report
6th September
Dundalk had to settle for a 1-1 draw with Galway United at Oriel Park tonight. A shockingly lethargic first half display saw the visitors deservedly go in ahead at the break courtesy of an Alan Murphy strike. After the interval Dundalk raised their game and dominated the second half. Ironically, Galway missed their one and only chance of the second half, an open goal, just before Dundalk equalized through Johnathan Prizeman. As the pressure increased, the visitors had a player sent off, and for the final 20 minutes Dundalk laid siege to the Galway goal. However, clear chances were squandered by McGuinness, Robinson and Ryan. In the end, the Lilywhites had to settle for a point in front of a decent crowd. If they'd started the game with the same urgency, then the outcome would probably have been different
Match report here tomorrow
6th September
Dundalk vs Galway ...PREVIEW
Struggling Galway visit Oriel Park tonight, and offer Dundalk a great chance to build on their impressive start to the season with another three points. The Tribesmen have got off to a disappointing start under new boss Dave Connell, with only one point to show from their opening four games, including a 5-1 trouncing by Bohemians in Galway last Friday. Off the pitch the club is in some disarray. That is in contrast with Dundalk, where things are really starting to improve and confidence is high after the 1-0 win over Cork City on Sunday. A win tonight would be enough to count the opening to the season as a solid one, and would move Dundalk into a respectable League position
Martin Reilly is likely to miss out, and the only change from Sundays team could well be John Ryan displacing David Ward up front. The youthful strikeforce of Ward and Robinson failed to forge a good understanding in Cork on Sunday, and Murray may opt for the experienced Ryan alongside his nephew Robinson. As in recent games, Dundalk will look to Keddy and Prizeman on the wings to create chances. Galway are weak in the full back department, and this could be an area where Dundalk have joy. Bobby Ryan is the man to watch for Galway, but as long as he isn't given too much space then the Dundalk rearguard which is getting better by the game should be able to deal with the threat Galway possess, and leave it to the attacking players to make sure all three points are secured. They should be up to the task, and with a good competent performance, Dundalk have the quality to win comfortably
Kickoff is 7:45pm
5th September
Martin Reilly could well miss a second successive game tomorrow night, when Galway United come to Oriel Park. Reilly's groin injury is troubling him, and could see him miss out again. Reilly is renowned for not missing games, and was almost ever present last season. Therefore the sight of a Dundalk front line without him is a strange one. It could pave the way for uncle and nephew, John Ryan and Ger Robinson to partner each other up front. After some indifferent performances from David Ward, Ryan could get the nod to play alongside his nephew Robinson tomorrow night, according to reports on LMFM radio. Jonathan Prizeman is responding well to treatment on his toe injury and should be fit to start
MStephen McGuinness is confident of a victory if Dundalk keep up recent form. On his website which can be found Here he says "if we keep our work-rate up and our passing game going, Fortress Oriel will hopefully still be standing come 9.45 Thursday" McGuinness also has praise for Premier Division debutant Chris Lawless, " once he is guided and wants it enough there should be no reason why he can't be a regular for years to come. Pubs and nightclubs are easy distractions for young players, so once our younger stars keep their minds on training and playing and ensure that they enjoy themselves at the right time, there is no reason why more shouldn't make the grade"
McGuinness played a vital part in the win over Cork on Sunday, but will miss the upcoming games against Longford and Bohemians due to suspension which will be a big loss, especially due to the lack of options at centre half with Bryan McCrystal also injured
3rd September
An 88th minute strike by James Keddy gave Dundalk their first win of the season in Turners Cross today. After the long trip to Cork, hopes were high that Dundalk could continue on from good performances against Shamrock Rovers and Shels. Ironically, the performace wasn't as good as in those games, but it was still enough for a victory against a shockingly poor Cork side. Dundalk still made hard work of it in the absence of Martin Reilly, but guided by Stephen McGuinness and Donal Broughan at the back, they kept going and forced a late winner. The goal came after great work by Ger Robinson who set up Keddy to shoot past Devine from 16 yards. Earlier, Robinson had two chances to put Dundalk in front. Cork also had chances in a nervous period after half time. However, Cork looked shaky at the back anytime the visitors got into the final third
31st August
Dundalk vs Cork City - Preview
Dundalk travel to Cork on Sunday seeking their first victory of the season, depleted by injuries picked up in the draw with Shelbourne last Monday. Bryan McCrystal definitely misses the trip, and both Stephen McGuinness and Johnathan Prizeman are doubtful. David Hoey and David Ward both picked up knocks on Monday but will be fit for the game. McGuinness would be the biggest loss to the side, as added to the absence of McCrystal it would leave Dundalk with only two recognised central defenders. His presence would be greatly missed also, and the team looked very disorganised against UCD without him. Arron Callaghan comes back from suspension and if McGuinness misses out, would be the likely favourite to replace him in the side alongside Donal Broughan at centre half. There must be worries about Callaghan at this level, a player who supposedly retired in the Summer but changed his mind. David Crawley moved into centre half on Monday when the injuries occurred, and he could well fill that role again, with perhaps Stuart Connolly coming in at left back, or maybe even a reshuffle that would see David Hoey on the left, and John Whyte coming in on the right. Prizeman has been the side's best player in the last two games, and his creative touch would be badly missed. If he recovers from a toe injury it would be a big boost for the side. Thankfully, Murray has options in this department should he miss out, and Stuart Connolly and David Ward will be on standby. Ger Robinson and Martin Reilly will again lead the line up front
City only have one point from a possible nine, and are 10th in the table, one place behind Dundalk. They will be expecting to pick up their first three points of the season in this match, coming off a 2-2 draw with Bray last Friday. In their other games they were hammered 4-1 in Longford, and then went down 1-0 at home to Bohemians. The City team is a mix of old and new, with familiar names such as Morley and Caufield still in the squad, but some new talent coming through such as Alan Bennett and Neil Horgan in the full back positions and Stephen O'Flynn up front.
It will be a tough game for Dundalk, like any trip to Cork is. The team is playing well enough to get a result however, and if the level of performance against Shamrock Rovers and Shelbourne is repeated, then Dundalk simply will not lose. A win however is another story completely, and I think most Dundalk fans would be delighted to come away from Cork with a point. The Travel Club bus leaves for Cork at7:30am, hopefully a big crowd will travel South to continue the excellent support the team has had this season
27th August
New boy Gerard Robinson got his loan spell at Dundalk off to a goalscoring start tonight, in the 1-1 draw with Shelbourne. However, the game will not be remembered for that. Instead it will be remembered for a fiery and at times crazy second half which saw one Shels player sent off, and three Dundalk players leaving the field due to injury. Indeed, the crazy Shels challenges really could have incited a riot. Amazingly only 5 minutes of injury time when added, when in truth it should have been 20. Little or no football was played in the second half, and it really was only three quarters of a football match. Then again, with a game against Cork on Sunday, Dundalk could have done without picking up more injuries. Richie Foran opened the scoring for Shels against the run of play on 15 minutes, but was sent off early in the second half for a reckless challenge on Stephen McGuinness. New boy Ger Robinson equalised before halftime with a header from a David Crawley cross
Dundalk vs Shelbourne - PREVIEW
26th August
Dundalk and Shelbourne both came into this new season with very different targets. However, both will be desperate to gain a win tomorrow night to eradicate the memories of the past week. Dundalk will be looking to bounce back from last Monday's undeserved loss to Shamrock Rovers, and prove they have the bottle to finish teams off. While Shels will be looking to recover from Thursdays humiliation by Brondby, a performance described as "pathetic" for a full time outfit, by chairman Gary Browne
Martin Murray said during the week that he planned to name an unchanged starting eleven from that which started against Rovers. However that may change if the three month loan signing of 19 year old striker, Gerard Robinson from Middlesborough is completed in time for the match. After the poor performances by Reilly and Ward last Monday, Murray might decide to risk the youngster in order to shake things up a little. To add a bit more spice to the clash, Dundalk's two wingers James Keddy and Jonathan Prizeman will feel they have something to prove to Shels manager Dermot Keely after leaving Tolka Park in the summer. In truth, Keddy will feel he has to prove something to the visiting fans as he never truly convinced them in his time at Tolka. Prizeman didn't really get a chance at the North Dublin club last season, and after a sparkling show in Tolka last Monday against Shamrock Rovers , he will be hoping to repeat that performance against his former club. With one point after two games, Dundalk will now have to start getting points on the board. Shels' who invested heavily in new players over the Summer, such as Peter Hutton, Johnathan Minnock and Jim Gannon will be aware of the fact that Bohs' have started with three wins, and will be hoping to keep in touch, even at this early stage
It promises to be an interesting night tomorrow in Oriel Park. Kickoff is 7:45pm. Despite the fact Dundalk only have one point so far, a draw wouldn't be the worst result to come away with
24th August
Dundalk manager Martin Murray is on the look out for a target man striker, and has been linked in the past week with former Finn Harps pair, Mike Turner and Alex Nesovic. Turner joined Harps on loan from Barnsley two seasons ago and was a big hit, scoring prolificly in the latter half of the season. He is based in England, but apparently is not interested in moving back to Ireland. Nesovic joined Bohs last season from Harps, and won the double with them before falling out with new boss Pete Mahon in the Summer. He is now on the lookout for a new club, and has been linked with former boss Roddy Collins at Carlisle. It seems unlikely Dundalk will get either man. In the wake of Mondays night waste in front of goal, Murray has admitted he is on the lookout for a striker, with the dilemma not helped by the fact summer signing Mick O'Byrne faces a long lay off
Dundalk striker David Martin was on target for the Irish team in the World Student Games in China this week. The team opened with a 3-0 victory and Martin, currently on loan at Newry Town scored a penalty. John Flanagan is also a member of the team
20th August
Sean Francis' 34th minute header gave Shamrock Rovers an undeserved winner over Dundalk in Tolka Park tonight. It was a game where Dundalk dominated possession, most notably before the opening goal of the match. It was definitely a game with a more potent strikeforce that Dundalk would not have lost. Rumour before the game was that Dundalk were interested in ex Bohs and Finn Harps striker Alex Nesovic, and in a game like this he would have been in his element
Dundalk now have another seven days until their next match, with the visit of Shelbourne to Oriel Park next Monday night. The game takes place on Monday as Shelbourne are in action in the UEFA Cup this Thursday vs Brondby, and requested a sufficient break between that fixture and the trip to Oriel
19th August
SHAMROCK ROVERS VS DUNDALK - PREVIEW
There was a time a few years ago when Dundalk were sick of Tolka Park. A freakish series of Cup draws meant five to six visits a year to Tolka. However, a trip to the all seater venue tomorrow will confirm in our minds that we are back in the Premier Division, offering a stark contrast from the trips at this time last year to the likes of Hogan Park and Baldonnel. In truth, the UCD game last Thursday was almost a bit too low key to really announce our arrival back in the Premier. Tomorrow night Dundalk have the chance to make an impression in the capital at a venue which often attracts many neutral fans
John Flanagan's participation in the World Student Games means he will be missing for the next three weeks, and it will more than likely be a choice between Stuart Connolly and Jonathan Prizeman as to who replaces him in the starting lineup. Connolly returned from injury with a good performance against Memphis University last Friday, and has staked his claim for a starting place, while Prizeman has the advantage of being a more natural right winger. However, Connolly could move into the centre, which could see Ciaran Kavanagh moving out to the right wing. Whatever about that issue, one guaranteed change is the arrival in the starting lineup of Stephen McGuinness, who will make his competitive Dundalk debut. Denied by suspension for the UCD game, McGuinness was obviously missed, and it is likely Bryan McCrystal will get the nod ahead of Donal Broughan to partner him
Rovers got their season off to a satisfactory start with a 2-2 draw away to a much vaunted Bray side. Off the field matters took the headlines, with Damien Richardson sent off after an exchange with the referee. Tony Grant is the main man to watch for Rovers, and his strength and movement is likely to cause problems. However, Rovers often lose the run of the game in the centre of midfield, and that is where the game will be won or lost. Much has been made of the signing of Pat Scully, but the Rovers team still has several problem areas which can be exposed. Greg Costello is reportedly a slimmed down figure at right back, but James Keddy should be able to give him a tough time. Scully and co at the back may not enjoy the pace of Reilly and Ward either, as pace more so than physical presence are the front pairs' main attributes. Rovers are a team which I believe we can finish quite close to, and it wouldn't be too bold to suggest we could finish ahead of them. But, despite that a draw would still be a good result tomorrow. At this stage of the season, getting points on the board will do
Likely starting XI - Connolly, Hoey, Crawley, McGuinness, McCrystal, Dunne, Kavanagh, Connolly, Reilly, Ward, Keddy
17th August
A Dundalk selection from the past will face Aston Villa Old Stars on Sunday in a fundraising game in Oriel Park this coming Sunday, which in conjunction with Monday's golf classic could make for a profitable weekend for Dundalk. Jimmy Dainty a former player to both clubs organised the friendly and it should be a fun day out for all who go as some true Dundalk legends return to the sight of their former glories
The Dundalk panel includes, Tommy McConville, Dermot Keely, Mick Lawlor, Brian Duff, Mick Fairclough, Tom McNulty, Jackie McManus, Paddy Dunning, Cathal Muckian, Hilary Carlyle, Barry Kehoe, Gino Lawless, Martin Lawlor, Alan O'Neill, Terry Eviston, Vincent McKenna, Ollie Ralph, Sean Sheehy and the man himself, Jimmy Dainty
Villa's side contains the likes of Allun Evans, Tony Morley, Gary Shaw and Gordon Cowans
Dundalk are back into League action on Monday night against Shamrock Rovers after a long break since the first League match. John Flanagan misses the game as he is playing at the World Student games. Preview of the game will appear here on Sunday
Anto Reilly is making an impression on loan at United Park with Drogheda United. He scored two goals for them tonight in a 2-2 draw with Waterford United
11th August
Dundalk found out only three hours before Thursday night's game with UCD that new defender Stephen McGuinness was suspended. Gerry Malone of LMFM received a list of suspensions that had been cleared, and those that hadn't and when McGuinness was on the latter list, he let the club know. Dundalk weren't sure if this was true or not, but didn't take the risk and decided not to play McGuinness. The European games meant many League officials were elsewhere. Meanwhile, claims that UCD's former Dundalk player Richie Purdy played when he should have been suspended have been refuted, as the FAI have claimed that Purdy's name was put on the same list as McGuinness by accident
The farcical situation has only gone to underline the work faced by new eircom League commissioner Roy Dooney. McGuinness will have to wait until Monday week to make his Dundalk debut
Meanwhile Dublin sides Bohemians and St Patricks Athletic incorporating St Francis got off to good starts in the League last night, with 1-0 and 3-0 wins respectively over potential relegation candidates Derry City and Galway United
9th August
Dundalk marked their return to the Premier Division with a drab 1-1 draw with UCD in Oriel Park. David Ward opened the scoring for the Lilywhites on 17 minutes. However, sloppy defending allowed John Martin to equalise 14 minutes later. Neither side took real control of the game after that and while Dundalk did rally for the final 20 minutes the game ended in an inevitable draw
After that game Dundalk would probably like to get another Premier Division game under their belts quickly, but must now wait 11 days until the journey to play Shamrock Rovers in Tolka Park on 20th of August. After confusion over his suspension, which eventually saw him miss tonights game, Stephen McGuinness will make his competitive debut in that match
8th August
The tension is building around Oriel Park, as it is now one day until Dundalk's return to the Premier Division. The visit of UCD tomorrow night will be the first Premier Division game of the new millennium in Oriel Park, and brings to an end over two years without Premier Division football in the town. After all the comings and goings in the pre season, the debate now turns to the likely starting eleven with reports suggesting today the team could be as follows, Connolly, Hoey, McCrystal, McGuinness, Crawley, Keddy, Kavanagh, Dunne, Flanagan, Ward and Reilly. However nothing will become clear until tomorrow evening. Realistically, with both Stuart Connolly and Mick O'Byrne injured, the two positions still open to debate are centre half alongside Stephen McGuinness, and on the right side of midfield. The new slimmed down Donal Broughan competes with new signing Bryan McCrystal for the centre half position, while John Flanagan and new signing Johnathan Prizeman are the two most likely to fill the right midfield slot
UCD will bring with them several familiar faces to Oriel Park. Greg O'Dowd, who only joined them from Dundalk over the past fortnight will most likely play a part while the side is now coached by Paul Doolin. The evergreen Derek Swan will lead the line for the "students"
In other news, Padraig Gollogley has joined Drogheda on a short term contract. It is believed Dundalk still hold the players registration so this could be a loan arrangement. He joins familiar faces Anto Reilly and Eoin Mullen at the Drogs
Newspaper opinion on the new season shows varying opinions on the chances of Dundalk staying up. Emmet Malone of the Irish Times predicts Dundalk will stay up, but Philip Quinn in the Irish Independent is slightly more sceptical and feels Martin Murray will have done well if Dundalk manage to escape the "quicksand"
4th August ...
A mainly second string Dundalk side lost 3-2 to Dutch Second Division side Leonidas today. Ex-Sligo player Karel Van Der Velden's 35 yard second half free kick gave the tourists the win. Van Der Velden stirred up Dundalk emotions more than once last year, and managed to do so again today. Arron Callaghan was sent off in the incident that led to the winning goal, for kicking Van Der Velden after he talked himself into trouble. Martin Murray came onto the pitch to have his say as well. The second half was fairly sedate, but the first half was very entertaining as some of the clubs young guns got a chance to show what they can do. Ciaran McCormack, Gavin Kelly and second half sub Gary Connolly will be new names to most Dundalk fans, having progressed from the youths. Derek Delany and John Sharkey were impressive, as was Martin Reilly in patches while in midfield Chris Lawless played well, and was even more prominent than partner John Flanagan. The Dundalk goals came from a Sharkey penalty, and Flanagan after a keeping error. Leonidas' goals all came from set pieces, with a penalty after a rash John Whyte tackle, and a free kick after a foul by Bryan McCrystal allowed Leonidas back on level terms twice before half time
Team : O'Neill, Whyte [Connolly 45], McCrystal, Callaghan, McCormack, Flanagan, Lawless, Kelly, Sharkey, Reilly, Delaney
Well, it has been quite a busy week it seems down Oriel way. Two friendlies have been played in Oriel, with mixed results. On Wednesday the annual Jim Malone Cup was surprisingly won by Drogheda on penalties after a drab game finished 0-0 after extra time. Dundalk used 10 subs in what was reportedly a terrible game. However, the majority of the expected first eleven with a few exceptions started the game but failed to find the target
Last night in Oriel Park, Dundalk defeated Newry Town 1-0 courtesy of a 65th minute James Keddy goal
Meanwhile Greg O'Dowd has completed his move to UCD. Greg may not have impressed all at Oriel last season, but he still scored a vital goal in Limerick that set us up for promotion. He deserves another chance in the Premier Division. Eoin Mullen, released by Dundalk at the start of the Summer has joined Drogheda where he will again team up with the on loan Anto Reilly
More details of these games can be found on the club's new official site dundalkfc.com which was launched during the week. The site will provide a great service to Dundalk fans worldwide, particularly on matchdays with a live updates service, which is basically Laptop Live at a new destination ! The site looks great and with some good people behind it is bound to be a lasting success and a great advert for the club
Oriel Web will still stick around however ! And after a brief holiday, the build up to the new season will begin here over the next few days
29th July
Dundalk return to action in Oriel Park this week, with two home games against local rivals Drogheda and Dutch visitors Leonidas. On Wednesday, the two Louth sides will fight it out for the Jim Malone Cup, the third renewal of the match. Dundalk are the current holders after winning 3-0 in United Park last year. Then, on Saturday evening Dutch side Leonidas are the visitors to Oriel Park for a pre season friendly
It will give home fans the first proper chance to see Dundalk's new look Premier Division side in action. With the new season less than two weeks away, it will also see the players fighting hard for places, as the squad looks particularly strong in numbers. The midfield area in particular is going to be interesting, with the likes of Derek Delany and Chris Lawless coming on and doing well in the Northern friendlies. Stuart Connolly and John Flanagan did not even take part in either of those games. The pressure will be on the current, and most likely starting four of James Keddy, Liam Dunne, Ciaran Kavanagh and Johnathan Prizeman to perform in these friendlies. Also interesting will be the starting duo up front, with David Ward and Mick O'Byrne vying to partner Martin Reilly. At the back, the new central defensive partnership of Stephen McGuinness and Bryan McCrystal will be interesting to watch, as will the performances of David Hoey in a new right back role. Even in goals, John Connolly will have to be on good form to keep Justin O'Neill out of the side
However, I will be on holidays this week and will miss the Drogheda game, but will be back for the clash with Leonidas. All the latest news will be brought up and discussed on Dundalk Talk, throughout the week
28th July
Dundalk drew 1-1 with Crusaders this afternoon in the second game of the two day Northern tour. Derek Delany was on target for the Lilywhites with 16 minutes to go, but the Crues equalised in the final minute in what was a typical pre season game, with Graeme Arthur firing past new signing Justin O'Neill. Plenty of subs were used in this encounter, and it was one of those, Derek Delany, whose future with the club had been in doubt earlier in the Summer, that grabbed the Dundalk goal. A couple of changes were made to the team which hammered Glenavon last night, with starts for Arron Callaghan and the welcome return of John Sharkey
Starting Team : O'Neill, Hoey, Crawley, Callaghan, McCrystal, Dunne, Sharkey, Reilly, Ward, Kavanagh, Keddy
28th July
Dundalk trounced Northern Ireland's UEFA Cup representatives Glenavon 4-1 in a friendly in Mourneview Park last night. Glenavon finished 2nd in the Irish League last year, but couldn't match Dundalk who were comfortable winners courtesy of two goals from Martin Reilly, and a goal each from new signings Ciaran Kavanagh and James Keddy, the latter reportedly being an absolute cracker
For a brief report on the match, Here, is a summary posted on the message board by Stephen Duffy
This evening, Dundalk are back in Belfast, this time playing the club Martin Murray left to manage Dundalk : Crusaders. Murray left as manager there to take over at Dundalk, and took Liam Dunne and Martin Reilly with him. All these games are good team building exercises, but another victory would be a morale booster following up on last night's great win
26th July
Padraig Gollogley is back in Dundalk, with his stint in America seemingly not working out, but the latest word suggests the player will not be resigning for Dundalk, after being told he is surplus to requirements. Instead, he could be headed up North, with Portadown possibly interested in signing the central defender. Gollogley was a first team regular last year, but decided to go to America for three months to play GAA this Summer, missing the start of the season. That seems to have fallen through, and Gollogley came back to Dundalk. However, with Stephen McGuinness and Bryan McCrystal signed, it seems as though he picked the wrong time to leave. Reports he has been let go by Dundalk have yet to be confirmed
Dundalk seem to have found a new reserve keeper, with Drogheda keeper Justin O'Neill seemingly the latest addition to the squad. O'Neill played for a predominantly under 21 side which lost to Portmarnock in a friendly on Sunday. He was reserve at Drogheda for most of last season, but did play in Oriel Park in the last game of the season. His fumble in the last minute gave Dundalk the win, but apart from that mistake he was outstanding for the whole game and kept Dundalk out on several occasions
Dundalk play their first meaningful pre season friendlies this coming weekend, with trips to Glenavon tomorrow and Crusaders on Saturday in a brief Northern tour. Then its back to Oriel next Wednesday for the visit of Drogheda in the Jim Malone Shield. All new signings are expected to play a part at some stage
21st July
It was inevitable with all of the Summer signings that some players from last year would be getting less first team opportunities, and would be looking elsewhere for first team football, and over the past few days moves in that direction have been mooted. Greg O'Dowd, likely to be well down the pecking order with the arrivals of midfielders Kavanagh, Connolly and Prizeman has been linked with a move to UCD, where ironically he could fill the role vacated by the departure of Kavanagh
Anto Reilly, who scored several crucial goals last season could also be set for a loan move to local rivals Drogheda in order to gain first team experience. Reilly is unlikely to start the season in contention for a first team place at Oriel, so a stint at Drogheda would do him no harm. It is quite likely that as the season goes on and injuries set in he would be required back at Oriel, so it would be surprising if it was a long term loan arrangement
It is now less than three weeks to the opening game of the League season, with anticipation building. Dundalk play UCD on Thursday 9th August in Oriel Park, and over the next few weeks the build up to the new season will begin on this site
14th July
Martin Murray has signed a contract to remain manager of Dundalk for the next two seasons. Murray was offered a three year deal last season, but refused to sign it, as he knew that he would be gone if Dundalk did not achieve promotion. Now that has been achieved, Murray feels secure enough to commit his long term future to the club
The manager is also planning to extend the contracts of Martin Reilly and Liam Dunne, to keep them at the club for a further two seasons
Stephen McGuinness' facial injury picked up in the friendly vs Kentstown is not as serious as was once thought, and he should be ready to play again before the short pre season trip up North to play Glenavon and Crusaders
Padraig Gollogley could also be back sooner than expected, he played for the under 21 side in the tournament at the ALSAA complex in the past week, in which Dundalk won their first game, but lost their second match
9th July
Dundalk's summer capture, Stephen McGuinness was injured in Saturday's friendly versus Kentstown, and could be forced out of action for the foreseeable future. Reports vary on the severity of the injury, but it was enough to force him to leave the field after 20 minutes. It was earlier presumed to be a broken nose, but some reports suggest it could well be a fractured cheekbone which could require surgery and rest, and force him to miss the beginning of the League season
McGuinness is due to miss the first game of the season versus UCD anyway, due to suspension, but he would be a loss for the pre season games, as it would not give him time to settle into his new role as the mainstay of Dundalk's central defence
Meanwhile, a poll on Eircom League Online [www.eircomleague.net] saw 80% of voters saying that Dundalk, after their recent Summer signings, would avoid relegation in the coming season
7th July
Dundalk won their first friendly of the pre season today, with a facile 2-1 win over Kentstown Rovers. Martin Reilly, unsurprisingly, scored both goals as Dundalk came from behind to win. Late on, manager Martin Murray and coach Tommy McConville were even able to come on as substitutes as Dundalk cruised to victory. Stephen McGuinness went off after twenty minutes with a facial injury. The team that started was ...Connolly, Hoey, Crawley, McGuinness, McCrystal, Dunne, Kavanagh, Prizeman, Ryan, M Reilly, Connolly, with subs being Mick O'Byrne, who is obviously now a confirmed deal after rumours linking him with Monaghan, Anto Reilly, Derek Delany, and the senior pair of Murray and McConville !
Some younger players were doing Dundalk proud today however, with the under 15 team winning the prestigious youth competition, the Foyle Cup. Preston, Motherwell and the Dublin League were beaten along the way, before defeating the Brenfer League in the final. Its a terrific achievement for all involved in Schoolboy football in Dundalk, and all the coaches, led by Tommy Connolly at Oriel Park. It's a great sign for the future of football in the town and at Dundalk FC
4th July
Dundalk confirmed the signing of UCD midfielder Ciaran Kavanagh at a press conference in Oriel Park last night. The experienced central midfielder, still in his twenties has spent his whole career at UCD, but is originally from the Dundalk area, going to school in the town. His capture is in some ways surprising, with Dundalk already having added Stuart Connolly and Johnathan Prizeman to the central midfield area, where we also have Liam Dunne, John Flanagan and David Hoey, and it will spark fierce competition for places that could see Hoey revert to right back, and Flanagan and Prizeman competing for a right wing slot
Another small player, Kavanagh has a reputation as a hard working midfielder, who is also a good passer of the ball, similar in description to Stuart Connolly, and Liam Dunne. It will be very interested to see who starts the season in midfield for Dundalk
Kavanagh will have played at UCD with James Keddy, and other new signing Mick O'Byrne who confirms his move tomorrow night. Striker O'Byrne is UCD's all time leading goalscorer, and comes to Dundalk after six unsuccessful months with Kilkenny. Monaghan are aggrieved at the deal, as O'Byrne had also been in talks with them over a possible move.
Martin Murray has now said the only player he still requires is a good goalkeeper, but there are none available at the moment, so he is prepared to wait for the moment. The first pre season friendly takes place on Sunday against Kentstown Rovers in Kentstown. The Under 21 side will take part in the under 21 tournament at the ALSAA complex, which the first team won in a canter last year. It starts next week
3rd July
Another press conference has been called for Oriel Park tonight, and three more signings will be unveiled. Johnathan Prizeman who was unable to make last week's conference will be one of them, and the word seems to be that Mick O'Byrne and Ciaran Kavanagh will be the other two. Prizeman and O'Byrne were discussed at last weeks meeting, so the capture of Kavanagh would be the real talking point, if it is true
Kavanagh is a Dundalk native, but has spent all of his career at UCD. He has been a crucial figure in their midfield for most of the last decade, and is a respected player throughout the League. His addition would be a terrific coup, and would make competition for places fierce. The conference takes place at 8:00pm again, and this highly exciting development is another boost for Dundalk fans, with anticipation for the new season now at fever pitch
It was a press conference that was called to announce the arrival of five new signings for Dundalk FC, but it became much more than that. After a brief introduction of the signings, that took no more than two or three minutes, it became a question and answer session between manager Martin Murray and some of the Dundalk fans present, over the mistakes of last season, and the future of the club in the season ahead
With Johnathan Prizeman unable to make it, but now a Dundalk player, the other four present were former Pats captain Stephen McGuinness, Shels left winger James Keddy, described as "a winner" by Murray and Athlone midfielder Stuart Connolly, described by Murray as similar to Liam Dunne, and who will add a lot to the midfield after impressing against Dundalk this season. Bryan McCrystal was the other player, with the former Leeds youth, a centre half from Bellurgan now on board after a year with Newry Town where he enjoyed first team football. Those five are confirmed, while Mick O'Byrne will also join if he impress further in training. Murray said another player could be on the way, saying that it is "a local lad", but not divulging anymore
McGuinness was the only one of the players to speak, and his stirring speech inspired confidence, and really was the high point of the whole event. He talks a good game, but came across as the type of player who planned to follow up everything he said. . After first explaining that the deliberation over joining Dundalk was due to bad memories of his last visit here, the night Dundalk went into liquidation after beating Pats 2-0, he spoke of how chairman Des Denning reassured him about the difference between Dundalk then, and Dundalk now. As Murray said himself, "the chairman signed him". McGuinness was at pains to stress that money was not the reason for the delay in his drawn out negotiations. "The contract I have signed now, is the contract I agreed on the first day when I spoke to Martin".
The rest of what he had to say was real fighting talk, determined, and confident. He started off "we're not here for the ride, we're not coming here for money .. we're here to win things..... We have to make Oriel Park a fortress, so teams will have to come to Oriel Park and have to work hard to get a result....We'll be a hard working side..". The round of applause after his initial speech showed that he had struck a chord. In recent weeks McGuinness has watched various reports about his future, and never really had the chance to have his say. Now he had it, he wasn't going to let the opportunity pass. Many are too quick to knock players from Dublin, claiming that they were just coming to Dundalk as an easy alternative, easy money. McGuinness was out to dispel that notion. If he can get all his teammates thinking in the same mindset, then we will not be in any trouble next season
Similar to McGuinness, Murray spoke frankly and honestly when questioned, and it was a revealing insight into his thoughts on some issues from last year, and his plans for the future. Often, Murray would stand quietly at games, in complete contrast with Terry Eviston and it confused people. They didn't know what he was thinking, they didn't think he saw what was going wrong on the pitch. In the second half of the season some even claimed that he had lost it completely. He was nervous and edgy over the final few weeks, but the Murray that spoke tonight seemed like a different person completely, finally showing the vision that prompted Des Denning to say on his arrival that Murray would be the man in charge, "for a long time". He admitted that last year, most decisions made were solely to get to the end of the season. "I'll be honest, when I came here I signed a three year deal with the proviso that if we didn't go up at the end of the first year, I was gone ...if we didn't go up, I was f*cked ...everything done last year was just to make sure we got up"
When the teams style of play last season was criticised for its lack of width, and lack of entertainment, Murray spoke again "You have to remember what we were up against ..when you go to grounds like Rathbane, you have to fight for the win ....teams came to Oriel and didn't want to play and that made it difficult...any team that came to Oriel to play football, we beat them". He obviously looks forward to not being the team everyone is out to beat next year, and some better football can be expected. He spoke of the criticism last year the team received, which obviously irked him. "I want people to come to Oriel next year, not just to see Dundalk win, but to enjoy themselves as well ... I'll defend my players....it bugged me when the players took stick ...you can criticise me, I can take all that sh*t"
Murray was again bluntly honest when rumours about John Flanagan being unsettled were put to him. Speaking of how Flanagan took offence to a comment Murray made in a chat between the pair and Ollie Ralph, Murray said "he reacted to it, and I didn't like his attitude in doing so ... he asked to be put on the list ..but he came back and asked to be taken off it ...its all sorted out now"
The issue of the physical fitness of John Ryan and Donal Broughan came up, and while both players were praised, it was said they would be even better if they lost some weight. Murray praised both for their contribution last year, and particularly in the case of Broughan said that his weight had been discussed, and was the reason he was on the bench for the last few games. "I said to Donal after the Limerick match, when Gollogley came back in [after being suspended previously] , that he had to go off and work on his fitness, and come back in the Summer right, and he could have a future". Murray said he had not been in contact with the player, due to holidays, but said he believed Broughan would be an asset in the Premier Division if he was to get himself fit. Murray spoke of Broughan's time at Pats, "if your face didn't fit there, you were out of the picture completely, but if others clubs came looking for you, they wanted a bit of money".
Ryan's condition was put down to lack of match practice, but Murray was full of praise for his contribution late on in the season. "John Ryan, in my opinion, made the difference for us last season ....he was someone who could hold the ball up, which we didn't have". Ryan will be at the club next season, and Broughan, quite simply, will be if he wants it enough
Some issues were raised that had little to do with the players on show, who at this stage were almost forgotten, as Des Denning and John Savage answered queries on the plans the club had as regards its youth setup, and other related issues. It was a press conference that was intended to announce five new signings, but it really became an evaluation of Dundalk's progress and ambitions as a Premier Division club again. Some of the stuff raised from the crowd was at times pointless, reflecting too much on the past twelve months, but it allowed us to see Martin Murray's reflections on the last season. It was in many ways, closing the book on all that went on, and showing it was time to move on. Hopefully, everyone will accept that
It was an encouraging evening. Connolly, Keddy and McCrystal sat and said nothing, as Murray and McGuinness did the talking. Those present were left with no doubt of who will be boss, on and off the pitch. It was said beforehand that in the past, you'd find out who Dundalk's new signing was when he ran onto the pitch. Not the case any more, as this was a very good PR exercise for the club. It comes back to Stephen McGuinness outlining the reasons for the delay in his move, worried about the Dundalk FC he remembered when he was last in Oriel Park. Back then, such a frank discussion on every aspect of the club in the company of the manager and everyone who mattered at the club would never have happened. Now, we left with no doubt as to what the long term aims of this club are. We're not going to settle for being bit part players, Dundalk FC are back in the top flight to make an impact : the likes of Stephen McGuinness and Martin Murray are determined to make sure of that
25th June
Tomorrow night in Oriel Park, Dundalk will reveal the five players they hope will help re-establish Dundalk as a Premier Division side. Five new signings will be unveiled to the press and supporters at 8pm, and now it's just a guessing game about who the players are. Stephen McGuinness is definitely one of them, and Bryan McCrystal is another one who will be signing, but it is not clear yet if he is one of the five about to be unveiled tomorrow. Sources in Athlone suggest midfielder Stuart Connolly has said he will be joining Dundalk, while the club have been linked strongly in recent weeks with Shels' midfielder Jonathan Prizeman. James Keddy and Mick O'Byrne are two others that have been mooted as potential additions to the squad, so if any of the signings were to come from outside these six, then it would be a surprise
Other targets mentioned during the Summer such as Tony Sheridan and Newry keeper Paul Strainey seem to be still available, but there has been no word on either over the past few weeks. Tomorrow night, all potential transfer questions will be answered
21st June
Stephen McGuinness will be unveiled as Dundalk's first major signing of the Summer next Tuesday at Oriel Park. Newspaper reports earlier suggested Dundalk had pulled out of the race, and some sources suggested the deal had collapsed, but financial controller John Savage said chairman Des Denning had convinced McGuinness that Dundalk had the "strength and ambition" to succeed in the Premier Division, and allayed any fears about coming to a newly promoted club
He will be officially unveiled to the press and supporters next Tuesday night in Oriel Park
In pre season news, Dundalk will play Drogheda for the Jim Malone Cup on 1st August in Oriel Park. Dundalk are defending the cup which they comfortably won last year.
19th June
Ex-UCD striker Mick O'Byrne, who spent the second half of last season with Kilkenny has been linked with a move to Oriel Park. O'Byrne had been at UCD for all his career, and won under 21 caps at Belfield, while forming a profitable partnership with Jason Sherlock. However, things went stale for O'Byrne after the arrival of Martin Moran, and he moved to Kilkenny last year. His spell there with the relegated side did not go well either, as O'Byrne was forced to play in midfield for most of his time there, and failed to shine. He did score in their final League game with Longford. O'Byrne, who is 27 would be a likely partner for Martin Reilly
O'Byrne along with Stephen McGuinness, Stuart Connolly, Johnathan Prizeman and James Keddy, is one of the five players currently being linked with the club in the national media. With the need for a striker a pressing issue, it is encouraging moves are being made in this department.
18th June
Despite the recent confusion over Dundalk's potential targets for next season, fans were today assured by chairman Des Denning that the squad will be added to, in the coming week.
"The rumours that nobody wants to sign for D.F.C or that we are not active in the Transfer Market could not be further from the truth" said Denning this evening, before going on to add that "Talks are on going with approximately six to seven players presently and awaiting contact with others. We expect to announce three to four signings within the next 7 days"
This is encouraging, especially after the news reported today in the Irish Sun, that Stephen McGuinness could well sign a two year contract tomorrow to join Dundalk, with the terms better than those offered on a 3 year deal by his current club, St Pats. McGuinness has said his heart is at Richmond Park, and that is understandable after having won two League titles there. However, the wrangling will have to end soon, for the best interest of both parties
With Denning saying that three to four signings are expected in the next week, it can safely be said that McGuinness and Athlone midfielder Stuart Connolly who has been offered terms, are two of those expected to sign. It promises to be an interesting seven days for Dundalk fans
16th June
The pre season of false dawns on the transfer market has taken another twist today. While the Stephen McGuinness deal is now in serious doubt, sources in Athlone have suggested that Stuart Connolly, their combative central midfielder, similar in style to Liam Dunne could be making the move to Oriel. Connolly played central midfield for Athlone and was outstanding for them in their recent playoff against UCD. He was sent off against Dundalk in January at St Mels Park, the day the Division One championship was really won. He previously had spells with Shels and Bray after returning from Tranmere. Connolly is out of contract and had been considering a new deal from Athlone. All links to the deal have came from Athlone, with no word from Dundalk on the possible signing of Connolly
The Stephen McGuinness situation is becoming frustrating, and really could turn nasty. With Dundalk confident all he had to do was sign on the dotted line, after agreeing terms, it appears that he has been offered a new deal by Pats, with other clubs also beginning to show interest. McGuinness returned from holidays yesterday, and is now mulling his options. If he were not to sign, it would be a massive blow for Dundalk's pre season preparations, and there would clearly have been a massive error somewhere along the line, that allowed it drag on this long. If Dundalk were so confident they had signed the player, it must have been with good reason, and it could be a case of the player shopping around for the best deal. Hopefully its sorted out one way or another very soon, as we badly need defenders, and don't need to be wasting time on a player who has no intention of joining
14th June
Dundalk have again been linked with a move for Shels midfielder, Johnathan Prizeman. Prizeman spent half a season with Dundalk as a full back on loan a few years back, but is most comfortable as a midfielder. Last season, his goals carried Kilkenny City to promotion, and he scored against Dundalk more than once, but a Summer move to Shels did not work out, and he spent most of the year on the sidelines. Shels' have reportedly now agreed to let him go, and radio reports have suggested that Prizeman has agreed terms with Dundalk over a possible move
Its not the first time he has been linked with a move, as last Summer before he joined Shels, and also a few months into the season, he was being linked with a move to Dundalk. A central midfielder who can score goals, Prizeman would be joining the club in the same role Fergal Harkin would have, however the latter opted for Bohs last week.
In his loan spell at the club, Prizeman was played mainly as a right back and while not doing too badly, was never really given a chance in his best position. He showed his true form for Kilkenny in 1999/00, and seems to have been unlucky at Shels, finding it hard to break into the central midfield ahead of the likes of Paul Doolin, Pat Fenlon and Jim Crawford.
12th June
Dundalk have lost out on the services of Finn Harps midfielder Fergal Harkin, with the stylish midfielder now set for Bohemians, his former club. The departure of Roddy Collins, the man who forced Harkin out of Dalymount originally, saw Bohs make a late bid for his services and the lure of the Champions League enticed Harkin. Bohs were not in the hunt when Collins was in charge, so this unrelated twist of fate may well have worked against Dundalk
Regardless of that, Dundalk will now have to forget about Harkin and move on, after the second blow for Martin Murray in trying to bolster the midfield in the last week. Personal circumstances have dictated that midfielder Tom Mohan must stay with Finn Harps for the moment. Those two were the confirmed midfield targets that Murray had named, and he will now have to look elsewhere. With James Keddy also linked, it can be presumed that Murray is specifically looking for a central midfielder in the Harkin mode, and one, possible even two wingers
Murray may have to look North, perhaps to players such as Newry Town's Dean Fitzpatrick who was linked with a move a few weeks ago, but nothing has been mentioned since. This is the time of the year at most Southern clubs when out of contract players are free to negotiate, so Murray will have to move fast in the busy transfer market
8th June
At the end of each season with most eircom League clubs, there is always a period of upheaval where you don't know what has happened to everybody from the previous year. Thankfully, the situation at Dundalk seems to be a lot more clarified than in previous seasons. Last seasons squad obviously needed amending in order for us to stay up in the Premier Division next year, but the amount of players leaving is slightly more than expected, with personal situations dictating a few
Basically, the players from last years squad who are now departed are Ian Hill, Tommy Byrne, Eoin Mullen, Brian McKenna, Padraig Staunton [gone to college in UK for two years], more than likely Greg O'Dowd, and of course Padraig Gollogley. Gollogley may be back sooner than expected, but any previous contract is now invalid. He will have to prove himself when he comes back, and as such a place in the squad will not be kept for him. Incidentally, Gollogley's move to America only came about early this week, with the player hearing it was happening on Monday, and flying out on Wednesday morning. Donal Broughan's situation will depend on his shape when he turns up for pre season training. If fit, he will more than likely be taken on again. Personal circumstances between Tom Mohan and Finn Harps have dictated that he stay there, while the signings of McGuinness and McCrystal mean the Gannon deal is now unlikely
Therefore the rest of the current squad have now been resigned, on 18 month contracts bringing them up to the end of the shortened season which runs from July-December 2002, which allows for the change to summer soccer. David Martin is resigned, but is likely to go on loan to either Newry or Drogheda
Fergal Harkin is undecided on his future as of yet, but if the player says yes, then finance will not be a problem. It is thought that a deal between Finn Harps could require a sum in the region of £8,000, and Dundalk are confident it is worth the risk. With McKenna gone, the issue of goalkeepers is one that will come into equation. Newry keeper Paul Strainey is a possible target, who would provide competition to John Connolly, while St Francis keeper Gary Rodgers is one who could possibly be signed as backup for Connolly. What this means is that players such as John Ryan, even the likes of John Whyte who there were questions marks over, have been kept on for next season. It is good that this has been clarified, as Murray now knows where he needs to strengthen immediately. He was in talks with James Keddy last night, who is leaving Shelbourne, and had been thought to be certainly on the way to either St Pats or Shamrock Rovers. With Ward doing well on the left hand side, a move for Keddy could see Ward move to the right and solving that problem. However, Keddy's demands mean a move to Oriel would be unlikely, and he is likely to join one of the afore mentioned clubs
On the money front, the figure of £100,000 extra on team spending which had been mentioned, will be partially raised in the form of a draw, the details of which will be released to the press next week. £25,000 is already there, £25,000 is projected from fundraising activities, and it is the other £50,000 that this new, "Premier Division Team Building Fund" will hope to raise. Basically, it will take contributions from individuals with a minimum of £20 per person. All those who do donate will receive acknowledgment and their names will be listed in the first few programmes of next season. However, it's not purely a one way system. Every £20 donation will allow a person one ticket in a draw that will be held. If someone contributed £100, they would receive 5 tickets and so on. First prize for this draw will be 10% of the total sum raised, with other prizes including tickets to Premiership games and season tickets for Dundalk's 2001/2 campaign
The money raised from this will go directly towards the team, and not towards paying off debts, which was a worry of some people when pondering buying a share. If you donate money, you will see the direct result on the pitch every week. The more that is contributed, the better the team will be. If it isn't successful, the team won't be. Therefore it is of paramount importance if the club is to make the step from Division One to Premier Division. If we consolidate our position in the top flight next year and secure our place in the 10 team league, it would take the pressure off to a large extent. Hopefully next week I will be available to give details on how donations can be made for those living overseas who may wish to make a contribution. Even £20 will do, it will all help for the long term greater good of the club
7th June
After a campaign which saw the Dundalk defence suffer at times, it seems as though next year's Dundalk defence will have a completely new look to it. With Arron Callaghan already retired, and Stephen McGuinness confirming his move to Oriel, it comes as a suprise that Padraig Gollogley has departed to America to play GAA with Chicago based side, Wolfe Tones. This conflicts with reports that Gollogley had signed a new contract recently. There is no news of how long this arrangement is going to last for, but he will not be playing for Dundalk this coming season, by all accounts
Coming into the central defensive equation is Bryan McCrystal, who has been signed from Newry. McCrystal played for Newry last season after returning from two years with Leeds, and has been consistently linked with a move back to Oriel. In fact, it seems his deal with Newry was nothing more than a glorified loan arrangement. He reportedly impressed with Newry last year so comes into the central defence equation where he will compete with McGuinness, Donal Broughan if he re-signs, and possibly Jim Gannon who is currently in talks with Murray about a possible move. McCrystal is expected to sign professionally, along with local youngster Chris Lawless who made two substitute appearances in the League last year
The McGuinness deal has increased the chances of Finn Harps pair Fergal Harkin and Tom Mohan joining the club. Five or six clubs are in the race for Harkin, but he was reportedly impressed by the ambition Dundalk showed in signing McGuinness
Locals John Whyte, Anto Reilly and David Martin are all expected to sign contracts for the season this week. The first training session under new coach Frank O'Neill took place on Tuesday night
3rd June
Dundalk manager Martin Murray has made his first signing of the Summer, ahead of the return to the Premier Division, when Stephen McGuinness signed for the Lilywhites. The St Pats captain is a fantastic capture, which boosts morale and increases the chances of the likes of Finn Harps duo Fergal Harkin, and Tom Mohan being attracted to the club. McGuinness won two League titles at Pats, and also the League Cup this season as Pats went on a good run after a bad start to the season, and ended up losing out in the shakeup for European places
In the prime of his career, McGuinness comes to Dundalk after going out of contract at Pats, and not being satisfied with the deal on offer from the Inchicore club, whose manager Pat Dolan confirmed only a few nights ago that a new offer had been made to McGuinness. That was not enough however, and McGuinness still decided to take on the new challenge at Dundalk, where he will immediately become an integral figure in the side, ahead of the season ahead. If this is a sign of what is to come over the Summer, then this is a very encouraging start as the preparations for Premier Division football begin.
The players resigned have all been given dietary programmes and a training regime for the Summer months, and weekends away are planned, with Arron Callaghan, and recently appointed Frank O'Neill acting as coaches. This is a professional step in the right direction, as the future looks bright for Dundalk Football Club
GANNON SET TO RETURN TO ORIEL ?30th May
Dundalk have been linked with a move for former player Jim Gannon, who is returning home after twelve years in England. After a season with Dundalk, Gannon moved to Sheffield United back in 1989. A year there did not go well, but when he moved to Stockport in 1990 he settled down and made 480 appearances for County in English Divisions One and Two, scoring 64 goals. He had a testimonial last August against Manchester City, but after picking up a cruciate ligament injury soon after, he was released by the club in acrimonious circumstances which saw Gannon threaten to take them to court for unfair dismissal. His career in England did not end there, as Crewe Alexandra decided to take him on for the rest of the season, and he played several games for them as they moved away from relegation. He had the chance to leave for another club on transfer deadline today, but stated then that he was returning home to Ireland. Radio reports on LMFM have said that Martin Murray has been informed of this, and is going to meet with the player next Monday. Gannon can play in defence or midfield, and was even played up front at one stage in his Stockport career. It is as a defender that he would most likely be deployed by Dundalk, if they were to sign him. If it's not Dundalk, he is sure to pop up with another eircom League club in the near future
Meanwhile, Murray met last week with Stephen McGuinness, Fergal Harkin and Tom Mohan and although no progress has taken place since, the discussions that took place were "favourable" towards the players signing, according to LMFM. It's not even three weeks since the season has ended, but minds will soon turn to pre season, with no confirmation yet of any friendly dates, although there will be a game against defeated English Division One playoff finalists, Preston North End, as part of a clause in the Paddy Quinn deal
26th May
Dundalk will play their home games in the Premier Division of the eircom League on Thursday nights next season. The decision was taken to yield the supposed financial benefits from using the bar for parties at the weekends, and playing home games on Thursday nights with 8:00pm kickoff times. Dundalk's first home game is against UCD, and after a trip to Shamrock Rovers, the third game of the season will be a home game against Shelbourne
Everyone accepts that financial security for this club is first and foremost in the list of priorities, but I, for one, want this to be a club that I can be proud of. Thursday nights in Oriel for the last few years have been dour, miserable and lifeless affairs. Any potential fans will want to come along to Oriel and be impressed with the atmosphere. They want to see life in the terraces, not in the bar, this is a football club after all. By playing on Thursdays, and alienating potential fans of the future, and travelling fans who could create atmosphere, we are presenting a very bad image of our football club. The hardcore fans will always make an effort to be there, but that's all we're going to get. After the giant steps of the last year, and the gaining of promotion, let's hope that this isn't a case of one step forward, two steps back. This is a club for the community after all, and one couldn't think of a worse night to inconvenience large sections of it
LOCALS SIGN NEW
CONTRACTS23rd May
Local quartet, David Ward, David Hoey, Padraig Gollogley and captain David Crawley all signed contracts last night which will keep them at Dundalk FC for the season ahead. It isn't really that surprising that the four have decided to stay on, although Crawley had been linked with a move earlier in the season. Hoey was set to go to the USA if he did not get offered a deal, but again it is hardly surprising that Murray has decided to retain him for the season ahead after his promising second half of the season
Meanwhile, Finn Harps right winger Tom Mohan is set for talks with Martin Murray on Friday. Right wing has been a position which has caused us problem over the last year, with the only natural right winger, John Sharkey out for the season, and therefore the position alternated between recognised central midfielders, John Flanagan and Greg O'Dowd. Mohan was formerly of Derry City and Omagh Town, and is one of the most experienced members of the Finn Harps squad
Murray also hopes to finalise this week, where he stands with star Finn Harps midfielder Fergal Harkin, and St Patricks Athletic defender Stephen McGuinness. Obviously if there is no hope of a deal for either coming off, Dundalk would be better off seeking alternatives while players are available at this time of the season
19th May
The season is barely over a week, and already eyes have turned to next season. With the Championship safely in the bag, Martin Murray has set his sights on retaining Premier status, and has already been talking to several established top Premier Division players who could be on the move for varying reasons
Amongst those linked have been St Pats established centre half, Stephen McGuinness, Finn Harps' midfielder Fergal Harkin, enigmatic ex-Shels star Tony Sheridan, Harps' right winger Tom Mohan, Galway midfielder Ger Crossley , Portadown striker Vinny Arkins, and Livingston FC's captain, Graeme Coughlan.The first three named are the most credible ones where talks have actually taken place. Dundalk seem to be linked with everyone nowadays that comes on the market, which in one sense is encouraging that we are back in the news, but many of the stories seem to be unrealistic
Talks have taken place with McGuinness, but it seems likely he will stay with Pats now. He told Oriel Web that, "Obviously I have been committed to Pats over the last five years and to leave would be a big decision, but as I have said before if I feel that it is time to move on I will" This is different from earlier rumours which suggested he was a cert to leave Pats. What seems to be clear is, if a good offer comes from Pats, he will take it. Sheridan however is a free agent, after being released by Shels. He spent the start of this season at Cardiff City, and early in his career was set to be the next big thing in his teenage years, making a number of Premiership appearances for Coventry but things went wrong. He came back to Shels, and in midfield and attack made a big impression. He has an abundance of skill, but personal problems, and attitude problems seem to haunt him. He has the ability, but does he have the desire ? Talks have taken place, but Sheridan seems to be waiting to see what else is on the table. Harkin is Dublin based, so a move would suit him after Harps' relegation. He is a classy midfield player who would be a big addition, but Shels have now entered the race for his signature. Of the others, Mohan would be probably the most welcome as we need a natural right winger, as Flanagan and O'Dowd are more central players
No doubt in the coming weeks, more will become clear, but it is encouraging that we are going to aim high in our targets, which says a lot about our aims for next season
Last Sunday, the end of year Awards night took place in Oriel Park, and the place was packed. Record breaking striker Martin Reilly was the unsurprising winner of the main Player Of The year award, and also took home the Dublin Branch of Dundalk Supporters Club player of the year award. The Travel Club Away Player Of The Year was David Ward, whose end of the season away form gave him the prize. The under 21, and youth team player of the year awards went to David Martin and Chris Lawless respectively, while the deserved winners of supporters of the year were mother and daughter, Maeve and Andrea McQuillan
On Saturday 11th May, Dundalk were crowned First Division Champions in Cobh, when captain David Crawley received the trophy from League chief Michael Hyland. In the meaningless game which followed, Cobh won 2-0 in a non event match. Details of the day can be found here