Dundalk winger Kelly bags Player of Month award

Dundalk's Daniel Kelly has been named SSE Airtricity/Soccer Writers Ireland Player of the Month for May.

The 26-year-old proved a pivotal player during the period - scoring winning goals against Finn Harps and St Patrick's Athletic - as the Lilywhites moved up to second in the Premier Division table.

Kelly claims the prize having earned more votes than runner-up Rory Gaffney, of Shamrock Rovers, and Shelbourne’s Jack Moylan, who finished third.

"It’s a great honour to be even nominated for the Player of the Month award, and I’m delighted to have won it," Kelly said.

"Scoring five goals isn’t a bad return in terms of the amount of games I’ve played. I always say I want to at least get into double figures and if I keep going the way I’m going, hopefully I’ll do that."

Stephen O’Donnell’s side have a chance to close the gap at the top on Friday night as they host current champions and league leaders Shamrock Rovers at Oriel Park.

"It’s going to be a big game," Kelly added.

"They’re top of the league for a reason and they’re a good team but we’ll treat it like every other game and hopefully get the three points to keep the momentum going."

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