Derry City -v- Bohemians

• Gareth Penrose
• Thu, May 07 2009


Derry City welcome league leaders Bohemians to the Brandywell on Friday night (kick-off 19:45) hoping to close the five point gap that has opened between the sides. Bohemians have been in devastating form and have only dropped two points on their travels so far this season. The Candystripes have had a rocky time at home, and have lost the last two, against bottom of the table sides.

First team coach Declan Devine is happy with the performances of his team but now wants to see these performances, especially at home, yield goals.

“Overall the team has played well this year but we have slipped up at home, not translating possession into goals was a problem but hopefully we are over that now. It’s going to be a tough game but these are the matches that both the fans and the players look forward to"

"We have quite a few players out injured for this game, which is a concern considering that we are playing a side which has shown good form yet again this season. Bohs ran away with the league last year and if we are to have any say in this year’s race we will need to put in a performance. We have a lot of injury concerns defensively but it is good to see Mark Farren firing on all cylinders”

Stephen Kenny will have to plan without Clive Delaney (hip), Ger O’Brien (hamstring) and Gareth McGlynn (hamstring). Peter Hutton and James McClean are a doubt.

Ex Derry City manager, Pat Fenlon is aware how tough the Brandywell can be, “Derry are probably the best team in the league with ourselves. It’s going to be a tough game. The Brandywell is a tough place to go and play in. We are going to have to be at our best and play really well up there to win.”

Fenlon has some injury concerns ahead of Friday’s match. He may be without Gary Deegan and Joseph Ndo, who are both slight doubts.

Extratime.ie Prediction: Bohemians to continue their strong away form with a 2-1 win over The Candystripes.