Dean Williams spot on as Drogheda earn derby bragging rights over Dundalk

Dean Williams will be the toast of Drogheda – at least until Louth derby hostilities are renewed – as his goal earned Drogheda United a victory in the 168th derby clash at Head In The Game Park.

The close season signing from Longford Town dispatched a penalty early in the second half to earn a second win of the season for Kevin Doherty’s side – and a statement victory at that.

The home side were full value for their win against Stephen O’Donnell’s team who have lost their unbeaten start to the campaign. Sub Steven Bradley energised them in the second half, twice going close to scoring a leveller but Drogheda held out.

There were unsavoury scenes at the end of the game when a number of opposing fans clashed on the pitch. Scuffles broke out but were soon brought to an end by stewards and Gardai.

It did take some of the gloss away from a very positive night for Drogheda, considering a growing list of absentees on Boyneside.

Match details

Drogheda were hit this week with the news that Darragh Markey could miss up to three months after fracturing his metatarsal. He joined Ryan Brennan, Luke Heeney and the unfortunate injury prone Mark Hughes on the sidelines but they did at least welcome back Chris Lyons to the squad after his absence from Covid-19.

With Bradley and Lyons both kept in reserve, each of the sides' top goalscorers so far this season were warming the benches from the start.

In an even first half, United had the better of the chances but Dundalk started brightly. Keith Cowan blocked Andy Boyle’s effort before John Martin teed up Pat Hoban. The striker’s effort was wide of the post.

United then went close themselves. Darragh Nugent played in Dean Williams. A smart diagonal run saw the forward round Nathan Sheppard but