Bohemians -v- St. Patrick's Athletic

Bohemians play Saint Patrick’s Athletic for the 150^th time in the league in this Friday’s big Dublin derby with both sides knowing they must win if they are to realistically keep their Airtricity league title hopes alive (kick-off 7:45pm).

Fifth placed Bohemians suffered a disappointing 2-0 defeat to UCD last Monday and that now sees them lie seven points off league leaders Sligo Rovers and Shamrock Rovers with just five games remaining.  Saint Pats meanwhile know that victory will see them go level on points with the league’s leaders.

Bohemians’ midfielder Glenn Cronin, who is expected to overcome a hamstring injury to start in midfield, accepts that the game is crucial if Bohemians are to win the title.  “It’s a massive game. If we win, we’re right back in it.”

For one time Bohemians boss and current Saints’ manager, Pete Mahon, he accepts that it is a “must win game” for both sides.  "For us every game from now until the end of the season is must win if we have any hope of finishing top - and even then it may not be enough. Bohs have to win for different reasons and we're aware that they're trying to catch us and win a European spot for themselves.” 

The earlier meetings between the sides this season have been close affairs with Bohemians claiming two battling draws at Richmond Park (0-0 and 1-1), while the Saints left Dalymount Park on their visit in May with the points thanks to a superb individual strike by Daryl Kavanagh.  Mahon believes that further drama can be expected come kick-off time.

"It's a Dublin Derby and the games between side normally have a bit of controversy. They had two players sent off the last time and there's always an incident or two to keep things interesting.  Personally I like going to Dalymount because it’s a good pitch and Pats always bring a good crowd over so the atmosphere should be great." 

St Pats are boosted by the return of Dave McMillan from a hamstring injury, while brother Evan is expected to overcome a calf strain to start in defence.  Ian Bermingham is also available having missed the Saints’ wins in Cork and Dundalk and is in line to make his 50^th appearance for the Inchicore side.  Midfielder Dave Mulcahy though is rated doubtful as he struggles with a hamstring complaint of his own.

Bohs meanwhile will be without the services of Liam Burns due to a calf problem, while manager Pat Fenlon will be keeping his fingers crossed that skipper Owen can overcome a hamstring injury to start in the Gypsies’ defence.

Friday’s Dublin derby will not only decide the fate of both side’s league title chances but is also a dress rehearsal ahead of the Leinster Senior Cup Final in Dalymount Park on October 10^th, while the two sides could also face each other in the end of season FAI Cup final should they win their respective semi-finals.  With that being the case, managers Fenlon and Mahon will be even more desperate to see their respective sides gain the victory.

Bohemians
Injured: Liam Burns (calf).
Doubtful: Owen Heary (hamstring).
Suspended: None.

 

Saint Patrick’s Athletic
Injured: None.
Doubtful: Dave Mulcahy (hamstring).
Suspended: None.

 

Paddy Power Odds: Bohemians 9/5; Draw 9/4; St Pats 7/5.
Extratime prediction: Too close to call, 1-1.