SRFC Analysis takes a statistical deep dive into games involving Shamrock Rovers featuring Match Reports and Opponent Previews. Not Affiliated to the club
It can never be understated how important Matt Healy is to how Rovers play, and he kicked off the new season exactly where he left off carrying out the most passes out of any player In the game including a sublime direct pass from his own half to find Brennan for the opener
It ended up being quite a convincing display by Rovers on Friday coming out deservedly 2-0 winners, St Pats best spell in the game came just after HT which we were fortunate to not concede
The triple sub of Byrne, Burke & Noonan was a huge psychological advantage for the hoops
Making just his first league start young Victor also impressed being quite an influential player in the attack for Rovers as he drifted towards Brennan while in possession also. Playing in a more central position so far in 2026 with a some what free reign
A great performance and 3 points to top off the opening night, Instant impact from Adam Brennan with a goal and assist added to his overall impressive display.
Stay tuned over the weekend for some talking points as we head into another home game on Monday vs Dundalk
The big moments from the game came up the other end of the pitch where keeper Joey Anang was called into action keeping the score a stalemate earning him the player of the match.
Last time out they faced off against Bohs In the Aviva
Kenny started with an unfamiliar variation of 3-5-2 in a game that failed to catch a spark with most of Pats only chances coming late from set pieces
From Bradley’s first season Rovers have picked up 18 points in their first official home game of the year.
One loss was inflicted by Derry in 2023
Pats have been the opposition twice with 2025 in similar circumstances when it became the first home game due to a postponement
The man in the dugout is no stranger to Rovers fans having recorded 26 wins against us over the years, 10 of which while Stephen Bradley has been the boss.
McGovern is yet spark into life in Tallaght, but 20 goals in his final season at Dungannon brought his name towards Bradley who has given him some big starts in Europe away in Prague and Athens
Can Bradley unlock his potential like he did with Johnny Kenny ?
Who’s up front ??
With 4 main options at striker is it a case of one of them becoming the star man for the year or will it be a balancing act between them
Let’s take a look at their individual strengths in the position.
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Highly sought after youngster Noonan could be considered the most exciting option at Bradley’s disposal
His speed and enthusiasm chasing balls in behind has caught out many goalkeepers and defenders domestically and in Europe away to Molde on his debut