League Preview: Sligo Rovers -v- St Patrick’s Athletic

SLIGO ROVERS

Sligo Rovers will begin the post Max Mata era when they welcome St Patrick’s Athletic to the Showgrounds on Friday night (kick-off is at 7.45pm).

The Bit O’ Red confirmed Mata’s switch to English League One side Shrewsbury Town on Thursday – ending days of speculation surrounding the New Zealander’s future.

And that means they head into Friday’s game without the talented forward.

They were also held to a 2-2 draw away to Drogheda United on Friday last – a result that their boss John Russell is keen to rectify.

“It was disappointing to come away with only a draw last weekend as the players showed a good reaction after the cup defeat,” he said.

“Tomorrow night we welcome an in-form St Pat’s side to the Showgrounds. Our previous games against them have been tight encounters so we’re expecting another difficult game.

“It’s important we build on our last two home performances where we took maximum points.

“We are eager to try and build some momentum and with players starting to return to full fitness this will only enhance our chances.”

ST PATRICK’S ATHLETIC

Saints boss Jon Daly is keen for his side to ensure they can return to domestic matters with a win on the road away to Sligo.

The Athletic have not played since their narrow Fai Cup win over Longford Town last month.

And Daly is relishing a return to competitive football after recording a friendly draw against Cliftonville last week

“We're looking forward to the match and to getting back to domestic action tomorrow night after a break last weekend,” he said.

“Our league form has been really good and we'll be aiming to continue our positive performances over the coming weeks, starting at the Showgrounds.

“Sligo Rovers are always a difficult team to play against, they have some very good players and they've beaten us in both matches so far this season.

“Hopefully we can reverse that trend.”

Referee: Robert Harvey.

PREDICTION

Sligo Rovers 0-2 St Patrick’s Athletic

Sligo Rovers

Injured: Will Fitzgerald, Garry Boylan, Mark Byrne.

Doubtful: John Mahon.

Suspended: Richard Brush, Daniel Lafferty.

St Patrick’s Athletic

Injured: Tom Grivosti, Axel Sjoberg, Kian Leavy.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.