They make the trip this time coming off one of their lower ebbs of what has been a very creditable campaign.
In the second-half in Drogheda last week, they were uncharacteristically flat. This was despite the introductions of new additions Axel Piesold and Aaron Bolger who both showed plenty of promise.
United paid the price for some missed chances in the first-half when they had the benefit of a strong breeze. They lacked a cutting edge at times and perhaps some luck in others. Malcolm Shaw had the ball in the back of the net but it was ruled out for offside. Post-match, John Caulfield was adamant that he was onside. He was certainly right that it would have changed the whole complexion of the game.
Regardless, there will need to be an improvement if United are to get anything in Dalymount Park. The remarkable Bohs resurgence, where they won eight games in 11, has slowed somewhat with their first two draws in the league.
Sligo Rovers may have shown the way a fortnight ago when they ground out a draw. The uptick in Sligo’s form is a salient issue for United more broadly.
There are 13 games to go and the cushion between the sides has narrowed to nine points, with Sligo still occupying the playoff spot. The gaps to the teams ahead of United is smaller. However, there is an unshakeable expectation that Pats and Shels will improve upon their standings despite European distractions.
There won’t be any panic in the camp. There are now increased opportunities to shuffle the pack. In midfield, Piesold and Bolger provide different options. Both appear combative and energetic but also comfortable with the ball at their feet. There is plenty of cover at the back.
The key concern is up front where United do not have a striker who has scored a goal all season. Bohs have been tighter at the back than they have been given credit for, only shipping more than one against Waterford in their last 15.
It makes for a difficult match-up before United begin an eagerly anticipated tilt at the cup. Nevertheless, United’s trips to the capital so far have been more fruitful than they have been historically, losing just one in four so far. Fans can travel with some hope and even the expectation of a performance.
