FAI Cup Preview: Drogheda United -v- Derry City

DROGHEDA UNITED

The only all-Premier Division tie in the FAI Cup first round takes place at Head in the Game Park as Drogheda United host Derry City (kick-off 3pm).

Neither side has been in sparkling form as of late, both boasting just one win in their last five games, and the Cup represents a chance to break a bad cycle.

Tim Clancy’s side’s only recent victory came at home to north-eastern opposition, as they beat Finn Harps 3-1, and they’ll hope for a repeat on Saturdaty afternoon.

The Boynesiders fell to a 2-0 defeat away to St Patrick’s Athletic last Friday night as Chris Forrester and Robbie Benson netted second-half goals.

Clancy will be without Dan O’Reilly after he picked up a fifth booking of the season, while Brandon Bermingham will undergo a late fitness test.

DERRY CITY

Derry City will look to get back to winning ways as they make the lateral trip across Ireland to face Drogheda.

The five-time Cup winners have taken four points from their two meetings with the Boynesiders this season.

A 1-1 draw at the Brandywell in April was followed up with a 2-1 win at Head in the Game, thanks to a brace from the now-departed Dundalk loanee Will Patching.

"Derry City have always had a special relationship with cup football and it's exactly the same now,” said manager Ruaidhri Higgins.

"We'll give everything to try and win the game but I know it'll be the same for Drogheda. As always we'll go there and look to be positive.

“If we are right at the top of our game we give ourselves a great chance to go through."

Marc Walsh misses out with injury, and Jack Malone is suspended, but Derry are otherwise at full strength.

"Drogheda have been excellent this season and they're right in the mix for the European spots. They will be very difficult to beat, but so should we."

Referee: Paul McLaughlin.

MATCH STATS

The sides have met twice so far this season, with Derry taking four points from a possible six to date.

A 1-1 draw at the Brandywell in April was followed up with a 2-1 win at Head in the Game, thanks to a brace from the now-departed Dundalk loanee Will Patching.

BETTING

Drogheda United 13/10; Draw 21/10; Derry City 9/5.

PREDICTION

Drogheda United 2 – 1 Derry City

Drogheda United

Injured: None.

Doubtful: Brandon Bermingham.

Suspended: Daniel O’Reilly.

Derry City

Injured: Marc Walsh.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: Jack Malone.