Dundalk FC / Drogheda United Joint Statement

Drogheda United FC and Dundalk FC meet on Friday night in one of the biggest rivalries in Irish football.

We share a sense of pride that two clubs from the smallest county in the country continue to compete at the top level of Irish football.

Matches between the clubs draw the attention of supporters across the country, and the atmosphere reflects how much this game means to our fans. That backing is part of the rivalry and is welcomed.

Both clubs are asking supporters to approach Friday night with that rivalry in mind and with respect for the occasion. The derby should be defined by commitment on the pitch, the contest between the teams, and the atmosphere created through support — not by incidents away from the action.

Supporters are encouraged to be loud, back their team fully, and take pride in the fixture, while also showing respect to those around them. Everyone attending has a part to play in ensuring the focus remains on the football and the drama that unfolds during the match.

Drogheda United FC and Dundalk FC look forward to Friday night’s derby being remembered for the right reasons.

Drogheda United Manager Kevin Doherty said "this future means a lot of everyone involved with the club. It's a rivalry built over years and it deserved to be talked about for what happens on the pitch. Our supporters play a huge part in that, and when they bring the noise in the right way, it adds to the occasion and give the team a real boost."

Dundalk Manager Ciaran KIlduff said, “We want the atmosphere to be electric. We want to go into the lion’s den. That is the whole point of being at the top level, representing Dundalk, going to your biggest rival’s backyard and trying to beat them. At the same time, we want it to be about football. We do not want anything unsavoury. Hopefully, that is all behind us now. We want a game full of passion and flair, but the way we can hurt each other most is by beating each other on the pitch. That is what I want people talking about afterwards.”