The League of Ireland continued on from where it left off in Round One. Shelbourne continued their 100% record with an impressive victory in Waterford. Drogheda United stayed unbeaten with a mauling of Sligo Rovers whilst Galway United pulled off a surprise victory over St Patrick’s Athletic. The weekend was completed with Shamrock Rovers vs Cork City being called off 40 minutes before kick-off.
Here's our team of the week for Round Two.
GK Brendan Clarke - Galway United
After conceding a goal that would be considered a straightforward save in the opening week against Cork City, Brendan Clarke came into the St Pats game with a point to prove. The 39 year-old made seven saves against his former side as well as making a match winning save from Joe Redmond in the 70th minute that sealed the three points for Galway. Undoubtedly the save of the season so far.
Great save from Brendan Clarke to deny Pat's an equaliser!#LOI pic.twitter.com/gGnbL6ul0s
— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) February 21, 2025
RB - Jeannot Eusa - Galway United
For the second week in a row, Jeannot Esua earns his spot at right back, continuing his impressive start to the season. Eusa was relentless for Galway United on Friday night, showcasing his attacking prowess while remaining solid defensively. His quality in the final third was on full display once again, as he delivered a beautiful cross from the right flank, setting up Patrick Hickey for a perfectly executed header.
CB Conor Keeley - Drogheda United
Like Eusa, for the second week running, Conor Keeley earns his place in the Team of the Week, playing a crucial role in Drogheda United's commanding 3-0 victory over Sligo Rovers. His dominant defensive display helped secure another clean sheet, keeping Drogheda unbeaten this season. Keeley was immense at the back, winning every aerial duel and denying Sligo's attack any meaningful chances.
CB - James Bolger - Drogheda United
Keeley's partner, James Bolger was rock solid at the back, showcasing his strength and composure throughout the match. He won three crucial tackles and dominated the physical battle, coming out on top in six duels. Not only was he defensively outstanding, but Bolger also made his presence felt going forward, registering headed two shots on target.
LB - Kameron Ledwidge - Shelbourne
Kameron Ledwidge had an impressive 87 touches, maintaining an 85% pass accuracy as he effectively linked play from the back. His reliability on the ball and defensive awareness provided stability on the left flank. Ledwidge consistently shut down opposition attacks with excellent positioning and discipline. A very solid performance
CM - Patrick Hickey - Galway United
Patrick Hickey put in a superb performance in Galway United's 2-1 victory over St Patrick's Athletic. Hickey scored both goals, showcasing his clinical finishing and sharp attacking instincts. His movement off the ball was outstanding, constantly finding pockets of space to exploit St Pat’s defense. With three goals already this season, Hickey is now the top scorer in the league, underlining his importance to Galway’s attack. If he maintains this form, he could be one of the standout attackers this campaign.
Respect to Patrick Hickey for a) the goal and b) attempting a kneeslide on February sod in Galwaypic.twitter.com/P2ydK4DRSf
— Balls.ie (@ballsdotie) February 22, 2025
CM - Darragh Markey - Drogheda United
Darragh Markey scored a brilliant goal, displaying his exceptional technique and composure. Receiving the ball inside the box, he expertly placed a low shot into the bottom corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance. Beyond his goal, Markey controlled the midfield like a true magician. His vision and precise passing dictated the tempo of the game, constantly creating opportunities for his teammates. Markey’s playmaking abilities were on full display, proving he’s the creative spark in Drogheda’s midfield.
Darragh Markey with a lovely finish to double Drogheda United's lead👊 pic.twitter.com/EOsBsRlXlS
— League of Ireland (@LeagueofIreland) February 21, 2025
CM - Shane Farrell - Drogheda United
Shane Farrell earns his place in the Team of the Week after an all-action performance in Drogheda United's victory. Farrell was everywhere on the pitch, tirelessly covering ground and breaking up play with his relentless energy. His defensive contribution was immense, completing five crucial tackles. He was also tidy in possession, freeing up Markey to do his magic.
LW - Michael Duffy - Derry City
Michael Duffy scored the decisive goal in Derry City’s 1-0 win over Bohs with a sensational free kick from 40 yards, curling the ball perfectly into the top corner, leaving the goalkeeper helpless. It was a moment of brilliance. Throughout the game, Duffy was a constant threat on the wing, using his pace and dribbling skills to torment Bohemians’ defense. His creativity and attacking intent were crucial.
One of those nights in the LOI where we see worldie after worldie, Michael Duffy doing Michael Duffy things. 🔥🫡 pic.twitter.com/ccJqcO4rU4
— LOI Football Hub (@LOIFootballHub) February 21, 2025
ST - Mipo Odubeko - Shelbourne
Mipo Odubeko makes the Team of the Week after delivering a match-winning performance for Shelbourne against Waterford. Odubeko scored the decisive goal, showcasing his poacher’s instinct by being in the right place at the right time. Mipo played like a complete striker, Odubeko’s movement off the ball was exceptional, constantly troubling the Waterford defense. He linked up brilliantly with Sean Boyd, holding up play and bringing his teammates into the attack. Odubeko’s all-around display proved he’s much more than just a goalscorer.
Mipo Odubeko with his first League of Ireland goal after some great work from Sean Boyd💥 pic.twitter.com/SbxkFL7eIi
— League of Ireland (@LeagueofIreland) February 21, 2025
RW Sean Boyd - Shelbourne
Sean Boyd secures his spot in the Team of the Week once more, proving his value in Shelbourne's attack with a standout performance against Waterford. Boyd stole the show by delivering an exquisite assist for Odubeko's winning goal. His vision and precise delivery showcased his playmaking ability, highlighting the growing partnership between the two forwards. If this dynamic duo continues to click, Shelbourne could have a formidable attacking force this season.
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