Derry City -v- Drogheda United

• Jamie Mahon
• Mon, Sep 12 2011


On Monday evening, league leaders Derry City will be looking to consolidate their slender lead at the top of the table when they meet a Drogheda United side who have been struggling for consistency. Kick off at the Brandywell is 7.45pm.

Derry City go into the game with almost a full panel to select from, Michael McCrudden being the only doubt. Derry will be hoping to extend their impressive unbeaten streak in the league to 16 games in their quest to usurp Shamrock Rovers as league champions. However City did struggle at times against U.C.D on Friday past and will be aware that there are no so called easy games for anyone at this stage of the season. Barry Molloy, Kevin Deery and Patrick McEleney have all been in terrific form lately and in Stephen McLaughlin they seem to have found a quality replacement for the departed James McClean. The defence has been solid also with only four goals conceded at home all season.

Stephen Kenny commented “The players are still maintaining their high level of consistency but must continue this against a very disciplined Drogheda side. We will prepare professionally and expect a tough game.”

Mick Cooke travels north with a few selection headaches. Jack Flynn and Colin O’Brien remain out for the rest of the campaign, Alan McNally is a doubt due to a back problem and Lee Lynch is still suffering with a knee injury.

Cooke said “I look forward to Monday's visit to the Brandywell. Derry City are one of the best footballing teams in the league and I expect Monday's game to be a great spectacle for supporters. We have had some close games against them this season and I felt that we were unlucky not to take something from our last encounter.”

Derry City
Injured: None.
Doubtful: Michael McCrudden.
Suspended: None.

Drogheda Utd
Injured: Jack Flynn, Colin O’Brien.
Doubtful:Lee Lynch, Alan McNally.
Suspended: None.

Referee: Richie Winter.

Paddy Power Odds: Derry City 1/7 Draw 11/2 Drogheda 18/1.

Extratime prediction: 3-0 to Derry City.