LOI preview: Title within reach for Shamrock Rovers

Shamrock Rovers could be crowned four in a row Premier Division champions by Monday with tonight's fixture with Drogheda United the last major step for the Hoops.

Several of their rivals have been seen off – often faltering at the requirements a title challenge needs – and Derry City and St Patrick’s Athletic remain the only challengers.

It has not been a vintage campaign for Stephen Bradley’s side. Europe was a huge disappointment and the FAI Cup also went by the wayside.

However four titles on the spin will be put in the history books for a side which has dominated the league so far this decade.

Drogheda will not make it easy. They claimed a famous win last time out at the venue – a result which demonstrated the magnificent job done by Kevin Doherty.

His side are mathematically safe, yet will be keen to finish off the year with their high standards.

There is an FAI Cup final dress rehearsal in Dalymount Park as Bohemians take on St Patrick’s Athletic.

It’s often the case as this stage of the year that such games are dead rubbers and managers are reluctant to reveal their hand.

It’s far from the case in what is arguably their most important match of the year so far with the battle for Europe nearing a conclusion.

Pat’s hold the upper hand in the table by a single point and a game in hand on Monday against Sligo Rovers.

Bohs know Shelbourne and even Dundalk are still in the hunt so they must keep up their good form, particularly at Dalymount Park where they have been a match for most teams.

Derry will try to keep their toe in the race when Shels visit the Ryan McBride Brandywell. Again it’s a mammoth match as a win for the visitors would actually put the home side at risk of losing a top three position in the table.

Dundalk can keep