John Russell hails Sligo Rovers display in draw with Derry City

Sligo Rovers boss John Russell was delighted with his side’s performance away to Derry City on Monday evening despite picking up a draw.

The Bit O’Red took a first-half lead through a sublime strike from midfielder Connor Malley but were pegged back in the second period when Reece Hutchinson turned the ball into his own net.

And they even had to play the closing stages with ten-men after Luke Pearce was sent off after picking up two yellow cards.

"I’m disappointed to be coming down the road with a point," Russell told RTÉ. 

Sligo may have finished the game with 10 men, but manager John Russell is disappointed not to be leaving the Brandywell with all three points. pic.twitter.com/QpQnF6VZRy

— RTÉ Sport (@RTEsport) October 14, 2024

“I thought we played really well tonight in and out of possession, took the game to Derry, an outstanding goal from Connor Malley and I thought we controlled the game for large parts

"Second half and I was disappointed to go down to 10 men. I thought Luke Pearce had to go for the ball. It was there to be won. 

“But even with 10 men I thought we were so dangerous on the transition.

“We had really good opportunities to get that second goal and win the game and I couldn't be prouder of the players and the performance they put in tonight.

“Nobody gave us a chance and it was all about Derry and they have to get the points to win the league. We're just disappointed that we didn't close the gap.”

Derry are now in the table but remain behind leaders Shelbourne on 52 points compared to the Reds’ 54. Sligo Rovers are sixth on 48 points and still in the hunt for European qualification.