League Preview: Bohemians -v- Derry City

BOHEMIANS

It is hard to tell how well the new look Bohemians team will come together for their first competitive game of the season. Losing some consistent starters like Roberto Lopes, Derek Prendergast and Dean Delany in defensive positions, could prove costly for the Gypsies.

Bohs have lined us some decent replacements. In particular the return of Keith Ward and Dinny Corcoran will be welcomed by Bohs fans.

Up front the strike partnership of Dinny Corcoran and Ismahil Akinade will be well capable of troubling the Derry defense. Having scored four goals in six games between them during pre-season if they can carry on that stat Bohemians might be safe from the newly extended relegation battle.

DERRY CITY

Kenny Shiels has been fortunate to hold onto most of his players who finished third last season. He will hope that Keith Ward who is likely to line out for Bohemians in this game will not prove to have been a big loss, at least not for this fixture.

The Candystripes have a lot of young players in their squad given budget constraints with manager Shiels not wanting to get carried away spending money that will be earned for their Europa League appearances this season.

Derry have scored 27 goals in nine preseason games. With 13 different goalscorers the Bohemians defense will have a tough first game of the season.

Referee: Paul McLaughlin

MATCH STATS

Last season Derry City took all nine points in the three league games as well as knocking the Gypsies out of the FAI cup (0-2). However Bohs might hope that this season will follow 2015 when their side won all three matches.

Bohs have won five out of six of their pre-season games and will hope to continue that momentum in the league. Derry won eight out of nine pre-season wins under their belts. Shelbourne beat both sides 1-0 to dent their otherwise perfect records.

BETTING

Bohemians 23/10; Draw 11/5; Derry City 5/4.

PREDICTION

1-1

Bohemians

Injured: Eoin Wearen (cruciate ligament tear).

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.

Derry City

Injured: Unknown.

Doubtful: Harry Monaghan, Lukas Schubert, Ryan McBride, Aaron Barry

Suspended: None