Preview: Bohemians vs Finn Harps

• Graeme McQueen
• Thu, Mar 27 2008




Bohemians will be looking for their first home win of the season when they welcome Finn Harps to Dalymount Park on Friday evening (kick-off 7.45pm).

Both sides have started the season brightly, winning two of their opening three league fixtures. However, having lost their opening home match against St Patrick’s Athletic in week two, Bohs will be looking to make amends in front of their own fans. Finn Harps, meanwhile, will be seeking their first away points of the season.

Following last weekend’s narrow victory against Sligo Rovers, Bohs manager Pat Fenlon has called on his players to turn Dalymount Park into something of a fortress.

“Their attitude in Sligo was excellent and they showed that the defeat to St Pat's was just a one-off where things did not go quite right. We got the result on the night and now we have to concentrate on getting the results at home as well as away.

"We can take nothing for granted against Finn Harps though as they have added some good players to their ranks since last season. Despite everything, we must lay down a marker in our home games if we are to be in contention at the season's end. To remain in contention for the title we must win the vast majority our home matches,” he added.

Despite being clear underdogs, Finn Harps boss Paul Hegarty is relishing his side’s first trip to the capital of the season. “It’s a massive game, but these are the games that you want to be involved in. If you’re a player then you should like this sort of game. I certainly did when I was a player and it should be no different for the lads."

Hegarty faces something of a selection headache in defence with Stuart Malcolm (groin) and Aaron Labonte (groin) again considered doubtful after missing last weekend’s one goal victory over UCD. However, Shaun Holmes returns from suspension. In attack, Stephen Parkhouse (medial ligament) and Gary Beckett (ligament) both face late fitness tests.

Bohs will again be without captain Kevin Hunt (foot), while other long-term absentees Glenn Cronin (leg) and Thomas Heary (knee) also miss out. Winger Killian Brennan is suspended, while Neale Fenn is a major doubt with an abdominal muscle injury meaning that Jason Byrne is again likely to partner Glen Crowe in attack.

Verdict: Home win