Match Overview
St Patrick's Athletic secured a 3‑0 victory over relegation‑battling Drogheda United at Sullivan & Lambe Park. The win extended St Pat’s unbeaten streak to eight games in all competitions, while the defeat pushed Drogheda into the relegation play‑off place.
The Saints had already beaten Drogheda in the Premier Division on four occasions this season, completing a clean sweep of victories against the Louth side. Their record against the club now stands at 12 matches unbeaten, a run that dates back almost three years.
The match was officiated by referee Marc Lynch.
Key Moments
The first goal came in the 17th minute when Finland international Anthony Olusanya struck after a reverse pass from Keena, who had deceived James Bolger to set up the finish. Olusanya’s shot flew across the goal into the bottom corner.
In the 92nd minute, substitute Barry Baggley calmly found the net to seal the win. The goal was a routine finish, but it confirmed St Pat’s dominance.
Drogheda’s attempts were largely ineffective. Luke Dennison denied Chris Forrester from range and was well placed to stop Anto Breslin, but the wing‑back slipped past him. James Brown, a former Drogheda hero, headed over the ball, and the goal was wide.
St Pat’s were not expected to score a second goal at that point, but manager Stephen Kenny called on Zach Elbouzedi and Ryan Edmondsen from the bench.
Kevin Doherty, the Drogheda manager, expressed fury at his team’s performance. He noted that the side improved after the break but still could not pose a problem for St Pat’s.
Post‑Match Reactions
St Pat’s have already accounted for Shamrock Rovers in the cup last week and are still chasing European qualification alongside domestic ambitions. The win moves them closer to the Premier Division summit.
Drogheda United’s season has been difficult. Their 2024 FAI Cup win and sixth‑place finish last season seem a distant memory. The Louth derby is next for them, followed by a league match against bottom side Sligo Rovers.
The atmosphere at Sullivan & Lambe Park was sour, with home supporters restless and despairing. Doherty hopes the mood will shift and the needle will move by the end of the next four consecutive home matches.
St Pat’s will look to maintain momentum as they prepare for the upcoming fixtures, while Drogheda will need to regroup to avoid the relegation play‑offs.
