St Patrick's Athl. vs Sligo Rovers - Premier Division

A fascinating Premier Division chapter awaits on April 3, 2026 when St Patrick's Athl. take on Sligo Rovers at Richmond Park — two sides with plenty to play for and everything to prove. The spectacle was once again on show ahead of Nice’s Europa League clash with AS Roma on Thursday, but what was supposed to be a display of power and pride quickly turned into a far more comical scene.

The two sides arrive with plenty to prove, and the Premier Division contest at Richmond Park offers a chance to lay down a marker. St Patrick's Athl. have held their own of late, WWLLL in their last five reflecting a steady win rate of 53.13%. On the road the visitors have looked devoid of inspiration, LLLWW in their last five and a win rate of 15.63% that makes for sobering reading. Goals could be in short supply or plentiful — St Patrick's Athl. average 1.63 per game to Sligo Rovers's 0.75, and that gap may dictate the rhythm of the contest. Manchester City are nearing an agreement with Marseille for an experienced goalkeeper as they continue reshaping the position behind Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Stylistically, this is a compelling matchup. St Patrick's Athl. favour a patient, possession-based approach, whereas Sligo Rovers are at their most dangerous when allowed to hit quickly on the counter. Schalke had only 17 per cent of the possession but, having visited the club to interview their charismatic coach Miron Muslic, that is hardly a surprise.

All eyes will be on the league's leading marksman T. Lonergan, whose 14 goals this season make him the standout threat and a player capable of deciding the outcome on his own. Discipline at the back and sharpness in front of goal will likely tilt the balance one way or the other. Free agent defender Oscar Mingueza can play as a right-back and a central defender and provides Palace with the flexibility they need for five at the back.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. With the sides so closely matched, a 2-2 stalemate looks the most likely way this one ends. Whatever the outcome, the Premier Division fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Liverpool's midfield wasn't great last year but I expect Florian Wirtz to have a better season, 100 per cent.