It was a season to forget for Drogheda United as they made an immediate return to the First Division as they finished bottom of the table. A dream start to life back in the Premier Division, back-to-back wins over Galway United and St Patrick’s Athl
It was a season to forget for Drogheda United as they made an immediate return to the First Division as they finished bottom of the table.
A dream start to life back in the Premier Division, back-to-back wins over Galway United and St Patrick’s Athletic, soon turned into a nightmare as the Boynesiders lost the next five games on the bounce, starting their decline down the table.
A 6-0 defeat at home to local rivals Dundalk in June was the low-point of a forgettable season with disharmony off the pitch leading to the departure of a number of senior players.
Drogheda’s season did end on somewhat of a high note as they eventually ended a 21-match winless run by defeating already-relegated Finn Harps in October.
Star Player: Stephen McGuinness
Despite shifting 65 goals, McGuinness is one of few Drogheda players who can look back on the season with any pride. The shot-stopper will be a big loss following his move to fellow First Division side Cabinteely in November.
What They Need For 2018
A Positive Start: With a new inexperienced manager in Tim Clancy, a winning start to the season should relieve much of the pressure at an expectant United Park.
Better Discipline: Drogheda had a staggering seven red cards in league and cup competition last season, a figure which surely needs to be improved upon.
Realistic Targets For 2018
Play-offs: With the core of 2016’s promotion side tied down for next season, Drogheda should harbour realistic hopes of a top-four finish and they know better than most that anything can happen in the play-offs.
Youth Movement: Drogheda had the youngest squad in the Premier Division last season and with 19-year-old forwards Mark Doyle and Stephen Meaney agreeing new deals, the Drogs will be counting on youth over experience once again.
Best Signing Made So Far
Gareth McCaffrey: Following a short stay at Cabinteely, McCaffrey returns to United Park and will be tasked with spearheading the club’s attack. He scored six times in 12 appearances the last time Drogheda were in the First Division.
