League Preview: Derry City -v- Drogheda United

For the second time in just fifteen days, Derry will play host to Drogheda at the Brandywell this Saturday evening, this time in the Airtricity League Premier Division (Kick off: 7:45pm).

DERRY CITY

The Candystripes have gathered some much needed momentum in the past few weeks with two huge victories coming the Brandywell side’s way as they attempt to steer away from relegation. Firstly the 3-0 FAI Cup win against Saturday’s opponents Drogheda United followed a week later by a battling 1-0 away win against St. Patrick’s Athletic has boosted Peter Hutton’s side as we reach the last stretch in this season’s campaign.

Derry have fared rather well against the Drogs this season with two 3-0 victories, one each in the league and cup, along with a one each draw at United Park allowing them to feel confident that they can get a result at the Brandywell come Saturday.

In terms of team news, Peter Hutton will be without the suspended trio of Philip Lowry, Cillian Morrison as well as captain Ryan McBride. Conor McCormack will be welcomed back into the squad however Peter Hutton will be left waiting on the fitness of Stephen Dooley and Mark Timlin who will be both assessed prior to the game as a result of their respective hamstring and calf injuries.

DROGHEDA UNITED

Following Johnny McDonnell’s departure, first team coach Mark Kinsella is to take charge of Drogheda as they make the long trip to the North West in an attempt to escape the relegation battle they find themselves in.

And the former Ireland international is well aware of the task that lays ahead:

"It's a job I have to do and one I'm looking forward to. I really enjoyed working under Johnny but the results weren't going for us. It's going to be very difficult but we aren't the only side in trouble. I know the players are fully aware of what I'm asking of them and it might only be the one result that is needed to change our season."

Kinsella is also very much aware of the situation at the bottom and knows a positive result is in much need given how tight it is at the foot of the table:

"There are four teams down there separated by only a few points which is important to remember. We need to concentrate on ourselves and find answers to what has gone wrong.

"We played Derry a fortnight ago so the result and the performance on that night will be fresh in the players' mind. They are a really good side who are probably underachieving this season but we know that a positive result for us tomorrow will drag them back into the mix. "

In terms of team news, Drogheda have a clean bill of health coming into this game except for the long term sidelined James Daly who is still recovering from a broken leg.

Referee: Ben Connolly

MATCH STATS

Drogheda are without a win in their last 10 fixtures.

Derry are unbeaten in this season against Drogheda across all competitions. (W2 D1 L0)

Both sides have secured 6 victories each in the league this season.

BETTING

Derry City 4/9; Draw 3/1; Drogheda United 7/1

PREDICTION

Derry City 2-0 Drogheda United

Derry City

Injured: None.

Doubtful: Stephen Dooley, Mark Timlin.

Suspended: Ryan McBride, Philip Lowry, Cillian Morrison.

Drogheda United

Injured: James Daly

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.