Drogheda United's Shane Farrell suffered a high and late tackle from Pico Lopes, resulting in a three-match suspension for the Shamrock Rovers defender. The incident occurred in the draw with Drogheda United last Friday.
What happened?
Pico Lopes, the 34-year-old Cape Verde defender, was issued a straight red card in the 0-0 stalemate at Sullivan and Lambe Park. The tackle on Shane Farrell was deemed high and late, warranting a three-match suspension.
Why it matters for Drogheda United
The suspension will impact Drogheda United's upcoming fixtures, including the games against Dundalk, St Pat's (FAI Cup), and Shelbourne. The team will have to adapt without Lopes, who was available for the Hoops' midweek victory over Egnatia in the Europa League qualifier.
What comes next?
Lopes will miss the games against Dundalk, St Pat's, and Shelbourne, but will be free to feature in the return tie in Albania. Drogheda United will have to regroup and find a way to overcome the loss of their opponent's key player.
League standing: 8th in Premier Division, 28 pts, 6W-10D-11L from 27 games, recent form DDDWL. Goals this season: 31 scored, 43 conceded (-12 goal difference). Title race: 26 points behind leaders Shamrock Rovers. Last result: Galway United 0-0 Drogheda United (2026-08-07). Recent form (last 5): 0W-5D-0L (DDDDD, most recent first); unbeaten in the last 5. Next fixture: vs College Corinthians (away, 2026-08-15).
