Derry City -v- Shamrock Rovers

• Simon Carter
• Thu, Oct 08 2009


Following the high drama of last weekend, Shamrock Rovers must now refocus sharply for a tough away test at the Brandywell against Stephen Kenny's Derry City. (kick-off 7.35pm)

While all of their remaining six fixtures will be keenly contested, on paper this could be the toughest assignment for Michael O'Neill's title hopefuls. Rovers have been scraping wins on a regular basis, rarely over-impressive, and this televised clash could give them a chance to produce a performance worthy of potential champions.

Derry relinquished third place on Tuesday night in Turners Cross, a game that was overshadowed by a supposed rift between players and those in control of the purse strings. With an injury list as long as his arm, it was a distraction Kenny could have done without and goals from Billy Dennehy and Faz Kudozovic condemned the Candystripes to their tenth league loss of the campaign.

When the sides previously met at the Brandywell, an entertaining 0-0 draw was played out, while both sides have 2-1 victories to their name from the duels at Tallaght Stadium.

O'Neill is quietly confident his side can keep their 20-game unbeaten league run intact: "We expect a very tough game at the Brandywell. Although it was 0-0 when we played there earlier in the season, it was an excellent game of football.

"We have been excellent away from home all season – with only one defeat, early on at Bohemians - so we’ll approach the game in a confident manner, as is always the case. But we are under no illusions about the task we’re facing. We know how difficult it will be for us. The players are enjoying the position they are in and are looking forward to the game."

Pat Sullivan is suspended for the Hoops, while injury concerns persist over the availability of top scorer Gary Twigg and Ian Bermingham. “Ian’s been missing for a while so it would be good to have him back," expressed O'Neill. "As for Twiggy, everyone knows how long a season he’s had – but we’re hoping he’ll be available.”

City's Thomas Stewart, Clive Delaney, Peter Hutton, Stephen Gray, Barry Molloy, and Sammy Morrow were all unavailable for selection on Tuesday and it is as yet unclear if any will make their return for this tie.

extratime.ie Prediction: Another 2-1, this time in Rovers' favour.