Match Overview
Shelbourne and St. Patrick's Athletic are set to face off in a pivotal League of Ireland match. With the season progressing, both teams are eager to secure points that could influence their standings. Shelbourne, playing at home, will aim to capitalize on their familiarity with Tolka Park, while St. Patrick's Athletic seeks to continue their impressive form on the road.
Odds Analysis
The average odds for this match suggest a closely contested affair. Shelbourne's odds of 2.71 indicate a 36.9% probability of winning, while St. Patrick's Athletic's odds of 2.49 suggest a 40.2% chance of victory. The draw, with odds of 3.21, holds a 31.2% probability. These odds reflect the competitive nature of the match, with St. Patrick's Athletic slightly favored.
Team Analysis
Shelbourne
- Current Form: Shelbourne has played 14 matches this season, with a moderate performance in terms of goals and possession.
- Strengths: High possession rate (60.43%) and effective dribbling (successful dribbles at 14.93).
- Weaknesses: Limited goal-scoring ability (average goals of 1.14) and vulnerability in defense (conceded goals of 1.07).
St. Patrick's Athletic
- Current Form: Also having played 14 matches, St. Patrick's Athletic shows a slightly better goal-scoring record.
- Strengths: Strong defensive record (conceded goals of 0.86) and effective dueling (successful duels at 101.57).
- Weaknesses: Lower possession rate (56%) compared to Shelbourne.
Head-to-Head Statistics
Historically, matches between these two teams have been closely contested, with both sides having their share of victories. Shelbourne's home advantage could play a crucial role, but St. Patrick's Athletic's recent form suggests they are capable of overcoming this.
Tactical Approaches
Shelbourne is likely to focus on maintaining possession and utilizing their dribbling skills to break down St. Patrick's Athletic's defense. Meanwhile, St. Patrick's Athletic will aim to leverage their strong defensive capabilities and quick counter-attacks.
Key Players Spotlight
Shelbourne
- Mipo Odubeko: Leading goal scorer with 4 goals, crucial for Shelbourne's attacking play.
- Evan Caffrey: Key midfielder with 3 goals, instrumental in controlling the game's tempo.
St. Patrick's Athletic
- Aidan Keena: Top scorer with 5 goals, a constant threat to Shelbourne's defense.
- Chris Forrester: Versatile player with 4 goals, capable of influencing both attack and defense.
Statistical Deep Dive
- Offensive Metrics: Shelbourne averages 15.36 shots per game, while St. Patrick's Athletic averages 12.29.
- Defensive Metrics: St. Patrick's Athletic has a better defensive record, conceding fewer goals (0.86) compared to Shelbourne (1.07).
- Possession and Passing: Shelbourne's higher possession rate (60.43%) and successful passes (495.43) could be pivotal.
Prediction and Conclusion
Based on the data, St. Patrick's Athletic appears slightly favored to win, given their strong defensive record and goal-scoring ability. However, Shelbourne's home advantage and possession play could make this a tightly contested match.
- Potential Match-Winning Factors: Shelbourne's possession and dribbling versus St. Patrick's Athletic's defense and counter-attacks.
- Final Score Prediction: 1-1 draw, reflecting the balanced nature of both teams.