Shelbourne welcome Shamrock Rovers to their home stadium Tolka Park in the Irish Premier Division on Friday. It is expected to be a close contest between teams that have shown different playing characteristics in recent weeks - Shelbourne have problems defensively, while Rovers present a solid defence and an effective attack.

Shelbourne come into this match after a 1-1 draw with Cork City. They have conceded on five occasions in their last six games and have conceded six goals in total, showing some vulnerability at the back. Despite this, they are currently unbeaten on their home pitch three times in a row. Against Shamrock Rovers, they managed to go unbeaten in two league games in a row, but their last win against this opponent was three games ago.

Shamrock Rovers were held to a goalless draw by Galway United in the last round, but their form has been solid - they've conceded just two goals and scored fourteen in their last six games. They are strong on their opponents' pitches at the moment, as they haven't lost in six consecutive away league games. Against Shelbourne, however, they have historically not won on their soil for six consecutive times.

As far as line-ups are concerned, Shelbourne will only be missing defender Paddy Barrett, who is troubled by an unspecified injury. Shamrock Rovers, on the other hand, have reported no absentees according to available information.

Thirteen goals have been scored in the last five games, which is an average of 2.17 goals per game. The last meeting ended in a 2-2 draw, which indicates the evenness of these two teams.

Shamrock Rovers have a slight advantage in current form and defensive stability, but Shelbourne are not easy opponents at home. 58% of Shelbourne's games have ended with both teams scoring a goal. On the other hand, 53% Shamrocks games have ended with a OVER 2.5 Goals. The latter is offered by the bookies at odds of around 2.50, which is decent value.