Preview: Shamrock Rovers vs Sligo Rovers

• Abi Armstrong
• Fri, Jul 25 2008




Shamrock Rovers welcome Sligo Rovers to Tolka Park on Friday night hoping to close the five-point gap that has opened up between the sides. (Kick off 19:45).

The Hoops earned a point on Monday against league leaders St Patrick’s Athletic, and manager Pat Scully was happy with the performance of his side as well as being impressed with the occasion itself.

“It was a fabulous game with two very good teams, there was a good crowd there who created a fine atmosphere on a nice evening. Overall it was a great advertisement for Irish football. As well as the performance, which was excellent throughout the game, I was also very pleased with our fitness levels. We finished the game looking much the stronger team.”

Scully is aware however that this week’s game will be tough.

“Games between us in recent years have been very tight and I’d expect this one to be no different. They’re full-time and they’ve utilised England to good effect, bringing in physical and experienced players.

In team news, a long-term injury keeps John Martin (hip) sidelined, while Chris Mulhall and Robbie Creevy continue their rehabilitation. Eric McGill and Sean O’Connor both return from suspension.

“Darragh Maguire suffered a slight knock but he’s been training and will be okay – otherwise we’ve a clean bill of health after the Saint Pats’ game,” says Hoops’ boss Pat Scully.

Sligo Rovers defeated Finn Harps 4-1 last week despite having to draft in a number of people from their A-team. This week his choice of first team players has reduced even more so with Matthew Judge facing a long lay off with a broken cheekbone and damaged eye socket. He has recently come through surgery to insert steel plates in his cheek. Steve Feeney is out with a hamstring injury and Seamus Coleman will have a late fitness test on an ankle injury.

The game kicks off at 7:45 and is live on television.