Reports: Englishman Taking Drogheda United’s Survival Bid By The Scruff Of The Neck

Douglas James-Taylor is on loan from sister club Walsall and has four goals in his last five appearances

Douglas James-Taylor has received praise for his crucial role in Drogheda United’s fight for survival.

The on-loan Walsall striker netted his fourth goal in five matches, earning a vital point against Shamrock Rovers on Sunday. His acrobatic strike in the 74th minute not only dealt a significant setback to the Hoops’ title hopes but also brought Drogheda within two points of derby rivals Dundalk in the relegation playoff area.

With Bohs manager Alan Reynolds acknowledging that the Gypsies are also in a relegation battle, the fight at the bottom is intensifying.

James-Taylor, who joined on a year-long loan from sister club Walsall in May, has been praised by Drogheda boss Kevin Doherty, who described him as “an unbelievable professional.”

Doherty added, “Dougie is a fantastic player, and he and Frantz Pierrot have really troubled a few teams lately.

“Although he was in and out of the Walsall lineup, where he is well-liked, he was eager to play more and was excited to join us. He even played a few minutes against Walsall in a friendly last week. He’s been excellent for us.”

Drogheda is now focused on their upcoming FAI Cup match against non-league Wilton, but Doherty is hopeful about a resurgence with nine league games remaining.

“We’re seeing teams dropping points and thinking, ‘they’re falling behind,’ but we just have to keep pushing forward,” he said.

“We’re pleased with our performances. People have asked, ‘how is this team at the bottom of the league?’ because the competition is fierce.”

Doherty also noted, “We have some ground to cover with other teams, and we’re working on it. Our goal is to move ahead of the teams in front of us, and that’s our main focus.

“It may sound a bit crazy, but I’m not fixated on Dundalk and wishing for their missteps… we need to concentrate on our own progress.”

Drogheda United’s Douglas James Taylor applauds the fans after the game