Derry City will host Bohemians at the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium on Friday in a crucial League of Ireland Premier Division clash. With Derry chasing the title and Bohemians fighting to stay clear of the relegation zone, this match could significantly impact both teams’ seasons.
Match Preview
Derry City head into this match on the back of a 2-0 victory over Bohemians in the FAI Cup semi-final and will play Drogheda United in the final. However, they suffered a 2-1 league defeat to Drogheda in their last league game despite dominating possession. Manager Ruaidhri Higgins has expressed frustration at his team’s inconsistency, but Derry still have a strong chance in the title race, sitting just four points behind leaders Shelbourne with two games in hand.
Bohemians, meanwhile, are third from the bottom but have shown signs of improvement, beating Dundalk 2-0 in their last league match. However, their recent form has been erratic, and they were eliminated from the FAI Cup by Derry. The team is just four points ahead of Drogheda United, who occupy the relegation playoff spot, making every point crucial in their battle for survival.
Team News
- Derry City: Midfielder Cameron Dummigan and winger Daniel Kelly are out due to muscle injuries. Manager Ruaidhri Higgins is likely to stick with a similar lineup to the team that defeated Bohemians in the cup, with Brian Maher in goal, Mark Connolly and Shane McEleney in defense, and Pat Hoban leading the attack.
- Bohemians: Defender Rob Cornwall remains sidelined due to a long-term injury, while midfielder Keith Buckley is also out with a ligament issue. Kacper Chorazka is expected to start in goal, with Jevon Mills and Cian Byrne in central defense. James Clarke may start up front, supported by Dayle Rooney and Daniel Grant on the wings.
Predicted Lineups
- Derry City: Maher; Wisdom, Connolly, McEleney, Boyce; Patching, Diallo; McMullan, O’Reilly, Duffy; Hoban
- Bohemians: Chorazka; Smith, Mills, Byrne, Flores; Tierney, Devoy, McDonnell; Rooney, Clarke, Grant
Prediction
Derry City’s strong home form and superior squad depth make them favorites in this must-win match. Bohemians have struggled for consistency, and while they may put up a fight, Derry’s overall quality should see them secure a 2-0 victory.
