Men’s Match Preview: Dundalk (H)
Date: May 2nd 2025
Kick-off: 7:45pm
Venue: Athlone Town Stadium
Athlone host league leaders Dundalk on Friday night as Athlone look to ignite their fight to ascend the table against Ciaran Kilduff’s side.
It has been a lacklustre start for Athlone, a positive result tonight against the title challengers would certainly be welcome by the loyal home support
What do you need to know?
Having been relegated to the First Division last season, Dundalk have started this campaign with intent. Currently sitting three points ahead of Bray Wanderers, The Lilywhites remain unbeaten this season. A resolute defence, which have only conceded six times this season, combined with a threatening attack forges a strong outfit visiting Lissywollen this evening.
For Athlone, the frustration continues as a strong performance away to Treaty United last week resulted in defeat, following consecutive draws against Wexford and Longford Town. Our last home game against Longford, saw a boisterous crowd turn out on Easter Monday, which coincided with a strong performance, only to come undone with a equaliser in the closing stages.
Dundalk defeated Athlone by the slender margin of one goal in the reverse fixture on the opening day of the season. The home side will be hoping to continue to improve on recent performances and claim a result tonight.
Team News
Oisin Duffy and Dean Williams miss out through injury, while Kyle Robinson returns to the team, having missed the Treaty United game through injury
Key Players to Watch
Kailin Barlow‘s recent performances continue to impress as his physicality on the pitch bolsters Athlone’s midfield. Picking up the ball from deep, the 21-year-old possesses a precise passing range, capable of playing wingers and attackers in behind the defence.
Dean Ebbe will be no stranger to Athlone having scored 17 times for the home side last season. Ebbe has continued his goalscoring exploits this season, with six goals in twelve games so far this season, the 30-year-old will be a menace to the Athlone defence this evening.
Match Information
Match Information
Match tickets for tonight’s game can be purchased here
The game will be streamed live on LOITV here
Subscriptions for LOITV can be purchased here
Match Preview by Jake McLoughlin
Photo by Thomas Gallagher