League Preview: Sligo Rovers -v- Shelbourne

SLIGO ROVERS 

Sligo Rovers will likely still be licking their wounds from their controversial loss away to St Pat’s on Sunday when they host Shelbourne on Saturday (kick-off is at 7.45pm).

The Bit O’Red were edged out by the Saints last weekend after referee Rob Hennessy awarded a late penalty that was hotly contested by boss John Russell.

But the Sligo boss has vowed to use that defeat as motivation for their tie against Shels.

“We’ll use all the fuel we can,” he told the Irish Sun.

"People had written us off before a ball was kicked this season, but we are showing our quality. We showed it on Sunday.

“We have to lick our wounds. But we’ll use it as fuel and motivation going into the Shels game.”

John Mahon and Conor Reynolds are likely to remain out with injury.

SHELBOURNE 

Shelbourne welcome back suspended duo Paddy Barrett and Tyreke Wilson on Saturday night for their trip to Sligo Rovers.

The duo missed their clash against Derry City on Monday night but will be back for their clash in the North West.

Shels are three points clear at the top and also have a game in hand on the Candystripes.

And with the finishing line in sight, boss Damien Duff is confident that his side can get over the line.

“They're no mugs, to be top of the league for 25 f***ing games. You're allowed to be nervous,” he said, as quoted by the Irish Independent.

"When I played as a footballer I was nervous, when you're not nervous it's time to jack it in and go to the pub. Nerves can be a fine line. The guys are ready, brilliant. We move on.”

Referee: David Dunne. 

PREDICTION

Sligo Rovers 1-1 Shelbourne

Sligo Rovers

Injured: John Mahon, Conor Reynolds. 

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None. 

Shelbourne

Injured: Dean Williams.

Doubtful: Sean Boyd.

Suspended: None.

League Preview: Derry City -v- Dundalk https://t.co/Cjb2xZewBSpic.twitter.com/qgElEtkf6n

— extratime.com (@ExtratimeNews) August 8, 2024