Limerick FC -v- Derry City

• Andrew Cunneen
• Fri, Aug 20 2010


The leaders Derry City meet joint second placed Limerick on Shannonside this Friday evening (Kickoff 7.45 pm), and a win for the home side would open up the title race once more.

While Derry appeared to have the First Division wrapped up not so long ago, they experienced a slight dip in form lately, and Limerick have been right behind them, aiming to capitalise on the Candytripes' mistakes. Derry lie only seven points ahead of Pat Scully's men who have gained three points in each of their last three outings.

While Limericks' fine form continued, Derry dropped points to north- west rivals Finn Harps in Ballybofey, and were beaten at home consecutively by Monaghan and Cork City FORAS. Limerick have done well to capitalise although Derry will feel they've thrown away their lead.

Limerick come into this as the form side, although Derry have only lost three games all season. With Peter White, Jeffrey Judge and John Tierney all returning for the Blues, they will look to press what is surely a deflated Derry side. While Pat Scully will have to make do without the services of eighteen year old Dave O'Leary, Derry have fairly much a clean bill of health. Barry Molloy and Mark McCrystal face fitness tests but should be fit to play.

A big crowd of about twelve hundred people is expected to embark upon Jackman Parks' gates Friday night for this top of the table clash.

paddypower.com odds: Limerick 13/10 Draw 11/5 Derry 17/10
Venue: Jackman Park

Limerick FC:
Doubtful: Stephen O'Flynn, Timmy Kiely.
Injured: Dave O'Leary.
Suspended: None.

Derry City:
Doubtful: Barry Molloy and Mark McCrystal
Injured: None.
Suspended: None.

Extratime,ie Prediction: Limerick to edge this one, 1-0.