Match Preview: Derry City vs. Sligo Rovers
Sports Mole previews Monday’s League of Ireland Premier clash between Derry City and Sligo Rovers, highlighting predictions, team news, and possible lineups.
Derry City, a title challenger, is eager to capitalize on their game in hand against leaders Shelbourne and level the points when they host Sligo Rovers at the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium on Monday. Currently, Derry City has accumulated 51 points from 32 matches, placing them third in the league, while Sligo Rovers sits in sixth with 47 points. This match is critical for both teams, especially as they strive for favorable positioning in the league standings.
Historically, Derry City has come close to winning the title, finishing second in the last two seasons, but they haven’t secured the championship since the 1996-97 season, under the management of Felix Healy. Their hopes for this season hinge significantly on their upcoming match against Shelbourne on November 1, a fixture that has seen the teams draw in their last six encounters, including four without goals.
Derry City manager Ruaidhri Higgins expressed disappointment following their recent 1-1 draw against Bohemians. He criticized his team’s inability to convert scoring opportunities into wins. Notably, Derry City has shown impressive offensive capability, averaging the joint most goals per game among the ten teams in the league while conceding the third-fewest goals. However, the team must be cautious, as Shelbourne has been struggling recently, winning only one of their last eight league matches, allowing Derry City to remain competitive despite their own inconsistent form.
At home, Derry City has been difficult to beat, with an unbeaten streak of ten league fixtures at the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium. However, they have drawn their last three home matches, which could indicate a need for improvement if they wish to secure the necessary points for a title challenge.
Sligo Rovers comes into this match following a friendly loss to Celtic (3-2) and a goalless draw against Shelbourne in their most recent league outing. In the draw, Sligo produced 15 shots but failed to create significant scoring opportunities, while Shelbourne capitalized on their chances. Manager John Russell acknowledged the positive aspects of his team’s performance but lamented their inability to convert their ball dominance into goals. Sligo’s recent form has been erratic, with three wins, one draw, and three losses in their last seven competitive fixtures.
One significant concern for Sligo Rovers is their away form, where they have drawn one and lost three of their last four league games, making it challenging to compete against stronger home sides. Derry City’s form at home will be a crucial factor in this matchup, especially considering Sligo’s difficulties on the road.
In terms of team news, Derry City will miss defender Cameron Dummigan due to a muscle injury and winger Daniel Kelly, which could influence their attacking options. Expect Paul McMullan to feature prominently alongside William Patching, Michael Duffy, and striker Pat Hoban. In the midfield, Adam O’Reilly and Sadou Diallo are likely to form a solid double pivot, while Andre Wisdom and Mark Connolly will anchor the defense.
Sligo Rovers, on the other hand, will be without winger Stephen Mallon, who requires surgery on a hip injury, and striker Wilson Waweru, who suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon. John Russell may opt for a defensive lineup that includes John Ross Wilson, Oliver Denham, Jack Henry-Francis, and Reece Hutchinson.
Given Derry City’s home advantage and Sligo Rovers’ struggles away from home, it would not be surprising if the hosts emerged with a narrow victory in this important clash. The stakes are high, and both teams will be keen to secure the points needed for their respective objectives as the season draws to a close.
