League Preview: Derry City -v- Cork City

DERRY CITY

Derry City will be hoping that they can shake off their malaise on Friday night when they welcome Cork City to the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium (kick-off is at 7.45pm).

The Candsytripes slipped back to six points behind leaders Shamrock Rovers prior to the mid-season break – but they will be looking for a response.

However, they will have to do it without the services of Cameron Dummigan and Patrick McEleney who are out with injuries.

Michael Duffy is a doubt while Colm Whelan and Ciaron Harkin remain out as long-term absentees.

But following the European draw made this week – Derry City will play against HB Torshavn – the mood has been lifted on Foyleside

“It’s an exciting time for supporters at the minute,” Ruaidhri Higgins said. “We’ve had the European draw this week and the start of the FAI Cup coming up as well so there’s plenty of interest around.

“The fans were brilliant in our last game (against Bohs) and the atmosphere gave the players a lift as we pressed for a winner.

“I hope they’ll give us the same sort of backing on Friday night as we look to start the second half of the season on a positive note.”

CORK CITY

Like Derry City, Cork City come into Friday’s game off the back of a disappointing end to the first half of the season.

After going on an impressive winning run, the Rebel Army were beaten at home by Dundalk just before the break.

And since then their injury woes have deepened with Ethon Varian joining Darragh Crowley and Albin Winbo on the sidelines with long-term injuries.

Meanwhile, youngsters Arran Healy and Joe O’Brien-Whitmarsh will miss the trip to Derry due to their Leaving Cert commitments.

Celtic loanee Tobi Oluwayemi has also left the club following the end of his loan – with the club also looking to tie Matt Healy down to a long-term deal at the club following his loan.

But City will be hoping that they can pick up a win against Derry on Friday night regardless.

“Derry are a very talented group and they have league and cup winners there,” Richie Holland said.

“They are an experienced side. They are going through a difficult moment that every team has gone through so far.

“It won’t be long before they are back and performing to their levels so I hope it is not Friday night. But we will have to be ready for everything.”

Referee: David Dunne.

PREDICTION

Derry City 2-0 Cork City

Derry City

Injured: Ciaron Harkin, Colm Whelan, Patrick McEleney, Cameron Dummigan.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.

Cork City

Injured: Albin Winbo, Darragh Crowley, Ethon Varian, Jonas Hakkinen.

Doubtful: None.

Unavailable: Joe O’Brien-Whitmarsh, Arran Healy.      

Suspended: None.