League Preview: Dundalk -v- Sligo Rovers

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DUNDALK

Dundalk boss Stephen O’Donnell is expecting a difficult task for his side when they host Sligo Rovers at Oriel Park this evening (kick-off is at 7.45pm). 

The Lilywhites’ game against Bohemians was postponed on Friday night due to a frozen pitch at Dalymount Park - with O’Donnell and his players left frustrated. 

But that postponement means they head into Monday’s game with a freshness about themselves. 

And they will be boosted with news that experienced campaigner John Mountney is close to a return. 

He played 90 minutes for the club’s under-20 side against Shelbourne on Saturday. 

Elsewhere, Stephen O’Donnell has a fully fit squad at his disposal.

“The players had built all week for the Bohemians game so when it was called off it was a bit of a damp squib but we’ve followed the preparation on for the last couple of days and we’re looking forward to Monday night,” O’Donnell told his club’s media team.

“It would have been more of a disappointment if we had to go through another full week of preparation but it’s only been an extra two days which is good.

“Sligo picked up two good points in their opening two games against Bohs and Derry and even though they lost against Shelbourne on Friday night, they had a lot of possession. 



“They have good footballers all over the park and they are a threat so we will have to be on our mettle.”

 

SLIGO ROVERS

Sligo Rovers are set to welcome JR Wilson back from injury ahead of tonight’s showdown with Dundalk. 

The Bit O’Red are still without the services of long-term absentee John Mahon, but Wilson’s return is a welcome one.

Rovers were beaten 1-0 by Shelbourne on Friday night at the Showgrounds but were unlucky to have not taken a point from the game.



“Dundalk will be a tough opponent tomorrow night,” Sligo Rovers boss John Russell said. 

“They have brought in a lot of new players and even though they were beaten by Galway United in their last game they showed a lot of quality throughout, so we will need to be at our best to get a result.

“I’ve been very pleased with what the players have shown so far for such a new group. We have been very competitive in all the games and unlucky not to have more points on the board. 

“We know we need to improve in the final third and I feel that will come.

“There is already a real connection between this team and the supporters. They can see the quality we possess as well as the effort and desire on display and they’ve really gotten behind us.

“We know the league is extremely competitive but we travel to Dundalk aiming for the three points on Monday night.”

Referee: Marc Lynch. 

 

PREDICTION 

Dundalk 0-1 Sligo Rovers

 

Dundalk 

Injured: John Mountney.

Doubtful:None.

Suspended:None.

 

Sligo Rovers 

Injured: John Mahon.

Doubtful:None.

Suspended:None.

 

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