Dundalk-Pat's postponed due to 'unique opportunity' in Conference League

Sunday's re-scheduled fixture between Dundalk and St Patrick's Athletic has been postponed, the League of Ireland has confirmed in a statement.

In announcing the postponement - the news of which was broken by Dundalk on 'X' some minutes before official confirmation arrived - the League of Ireland said the decision was taken "as a result of the unique opportunity that now exists for two League of Ireland Clubs to compete in the League Phase of UEFA Club competitions for the first time."

"Having taken into consideration the exceptional circumstances that the fixtures between each leg for St. Patrick Athletic is six days instead of the standard seven, the League of Ireland has postponed this Sunday's fixture at Oriel Park and a new date will be announced in due course."

St Pat's manager Stephen Kenny last night hit out at the fixture schedule following his side's encouraging draw with Istanbul Basaksehir in Tallaght, saying it hindered Irish clubs' prospects in Europe and noting that the Turkish league had cancelled this weekend's league games for the clubs involved in European competition.

Kenny's side head to Turkey this week with their chances of qualification for the Europa Conference League still alive.

Shamrock Rovers, who last reached the group phase in 2022, are likely bound for the group stage, after a 4-0 reversal away to Greek side PAOK narrowed their chances of reaching the Europa League group phase.