Desmond's impressive season with Shelbourne attracted interest from Shels' Dublin rivals and FAI Cup holders, St Patrick's Athletic from the League of Ireland Premier Division.

Having played many games as a holding midfielder in the first half of the season, Desmond was returned to centre back and formed an excellent defensive partnership with mid-season signing Jordi Balk.

The team's form also picked up in the second half of the season as they managed to finish in 8th position with Desmond contributing heavily, playing in all but one of the club's 33 league games.

[12] Desmond featured in every round of the club's run to the final of the U.S. Open Cup, including wins over Major League Soccer sides San Jose Earthquakes, Sporting Kansas City and LA Galaxy.

[13][14] On 7 September 2022, Desmond played in the 2022 U.S. Open Cup Final as his side were defeated 3–0 by Orlando City in front of a sold out crowd of 25,527 at the Exploria Stadium in Florida.

[18] Desmond was called up to the Republic of Ireland under-21s shortly after he signed for St Patrick's Athletic alongside fellow centre back Sean Hoare.