🗞️ Match Preview - Dundalk FC vs UCD

Sean McGuinness
Jun 12
2 min read

Dundalk Return to Action with UCD Clash at Oriel

Dundalk FC kick off the second half of their First Division campaign this Friday night when they welcome UCD to Oriel Park, a clash that could have major implications in the race for promotion.

The Lilywhites are flying high at the top of the table, unbeaten in 17 games, but head coach Ciarán Kilduff is under no illusions. With UCD sitting fifth and chasing them down, this is a key moment to keep momentum going.

“Momentum can go as fast as it comes,” Kilduff said. “We need to be razor sharp.”

Mid-Season Break, But No Let-Up

Dundalk entered the mid-season break on a high after a gritty away win in Wexford, and the mood around the club remains confident but grounded. Considering the off-field uncertainty before a ball was kicked, few could have predicted an unbeaten first half of the season.

“To reach the break undefeated is an incredible achievement and a credit to this young group,” said Kilduff.

Players like Sean Spaight, Luke Mulligan, and Vinnie Leonard have stepped up in style, anchoring a squad built on youth, hunger, and community values, with several juggling football and schoolwork throughout the campaign.

UCD in Form and in the Hunt

Friday’s visitors come to Oriel in form. UCD sit fifth on 22 points, inside the promotion playoff spots, and are building serious momentum of their own after back-to-back wins, a 2-1 victory away at Finn Harps and a 1-0 win at home to Athlone Town.

They’ll be out to avenge the 1-0 defeat they suffered at the hands of Dundalk earlier this season in Belfield, where Leo Gaxha’s early goal proved the difference on the opening night. Expect a tactical, hard-fought battle between two sides who have everything to play for.

"We’re Only Getting Started"

Kilduff is determined to keep his squad focused and level-headed in the weeks ahead. With 10 home league games remaining, he knows the fans can play a crucial role.

“When I’m trying to bring in players, I don’t have a cheque book. What I have is Oriole Park and that crowd,” he said.“We’ve got something special here — and we’re only getting started.”

Team News: Options Growing for Dundalk

Head coach Ciarán Kilduff is boosted by a strong squad heading into Friday’s showdown with UCD. Seán McHale has completed his first full week of training, while Ethen Vaughan and Norman Garbett are edging closer to full fitness, expected to be available within the next fortnight. Conor O’Keefe is also back in contention, and the young duo of Sean Spaight and Vinnie Leonard return to the fold after international duty. With a clean bill of health and players returning at the right time, Kilduff says the group is “fit and ready to go” as the second half of the season kicks off.

🕢 Kick-off: Friday, 7:45pm

📍 Venue: Oriel Park

🎟️ Tickets: On sale now at https://embed.futureticketing.ie/c/dundalk-fc/home-fans/

Let’s back the boys and start the second half of the season strong. ⚪⚫