Derry City -v- UCD

• Gordon Hunt
• Thu, May 05 2011


Derry City will aim to bounce back from a stunning 3-0 loss against Sligo Rovers last Monday when they host UCD on Friday night at the Brandywell. (Kick off, 7.45pm)

Stephen Kenny’s side had posted notice of their title credentials with a bitter victory at Bohemians on Friday thanks to goals from James McClean and Daniel Lafferty. But they will expect a real challenge from the improving UCD in this tie, following such a disastrous trip to Sligo where the Candystripes finished with eight men after three red cards.

UCD enjoyed a good Bank holiday weekend with home wins against Sligo Rovers and Drogheda United. Both games finished 2-1 as UCD collected their first home wins of the season. Robbie Benson and Graham Rusk scored the goals to defeat Sligo, while Robbie Creevy and Sean Russell got The Students all three points against Drogs, scoring after United had taken a surprise lead.

“I have never been involved in a game where three players have been sent off”, said Derry boss Stephen Kenny. “We now have to regroup against UCD. They have had two straight wins so they have had a good week but hopefully we can put on a good performance,”

Looking ahead to the tie, UCD boss, Martin Russell said, “The Brandywell is always a challenging place for teams to go and Stephen Kenny will have his players ready to bounce back from their recent set back. We’re hopeful that we build on our recent good results and continue to move up the table.”

The Candystripes are without suspended Kevin Deery, Eddie McCallion and Emmet Friars while Barry Molloy (ankle ligaments) and Gareth McGlynn (groin) are injury worries. UCD have David O’Connor back in training but he is not expected to feature. Cillian Morrisson (ankle) and Mark Langtry (calf) are still out.

Derry City
Injured: None.
Doubtful: Barry Molloy (ankle ligaments) and Gareth McGlynn (groin).
Suspended:Kevin Deery, Eddie McCallion and Emmet Friars.

UCD
Injured:Cillian Morrisson (ankle) and Mark Langtry (calf).
Doubtful: David O’Connor.
Suspended:None.

Referee: Richie Winter.
Paddy Power Odds: Derry 8/13; Draw 12/5; UCD 5/1.
Extratime prediction: 2-0 Derry.