Photo: Finnharps.ie
This time of year is a time when, understandably, much of the focus can tend to be geared towards the clubs that are competing in Europe. As such, some very big domestic clashes can fly somewhat under the radar. I think that is definitely the case with some of this weekend's fixtures and so I wanted to preview these for a change. I will also be reviewing the three European results shortly, also.
Friday
Drogheda United v Bohemians
Head in the Game Park, 7.45 pm
I think this is an interesting game. From a table point of view, a win for Drogheda would have them breathing down Bohs' necks in sixth place. As it stands, it does not look as though either Bohs or Shelbourne are in any danger of a relegation battle with Finn Harps. United sit 13 points ahead of Harps, who have only accumulated a total of 12 thus far. At the same time, Keith Long's men will still have ambitions of European qualification next year. As it stands, they sit six behind St. Patrick's Athletic, with a game in hand. The Gypsies' form has been very up and down of late and I reckon Bohs fans will see this as a must-win game. Kevin Doherty's side will certainly make it difficult for them, though, as they did in Dalymount Park back in May when Dean Williams rescued a point late on. I am expecting a very tough, tight game which could go either way. A big performance will be needed from Bohs to beat the Drogs at home.
St. Patrick's Athletic v Dundalk
Richmond Park, 7.45 pm
This is a huge game for both sides. It is fourth hosting second and one both sides need three points from. From the Saints' point of view, their title ambitions look to be slipping away but a win would at least close the gap on Derry, who are not in action until Sunday. With Shamrock Rovers' game against Shelbourne postponed, this game is Dundalk's game in hand on the Hoops, who are ten points clear. Stephen O'Donnell's return to Inchicore will also add some extra spice to a match of extremely high importance. I am hoping for a really good game. There was little between the two sides when they met in Oriel Park in May, Daniel Kelly's goal separating the two sides. Dundalk will also be looking to bounce back from their disappointing result in last week's Louth Derby while Tim Clancy's side will be looking to gain some momentum ahead of the start of their European campaign when they host NS Mura on Thursday night. Another game that I feel could go either way.
Sunday
Finn Harps v Derry City
Finn Park, 6 pm
I have to admit, I love the Harps and Derry derby. The passion from the fans of both sides is up there with any of the derbies in the League of Ireland. I think the special thing about a derby, be it Rovers and Bohs, Dundalk and Drogheda, Cork and Cobh, or any of the others, is that form and league position is completely irrelevant. Derry sit a point off Dundalk while Harps are in danger of becoming very isolated in that relegation play-off spot. However, the Candystripes will have a proper fight on their hands on Sunday evening if they want to return home with all three points. Dundalk and Rovers will be hoping that Harps can get something from the game and I certainly think that is possible. The effect the disappointing loss to Riga will have on Derry will be interesting; they could use it as motivation to bounce back or it may be deflating. I am really looking forward to this match!
Sligo Rovers v UCD AFC
The Showgrounds, 6 pm
On paper, at least, this is the easiest of the four games to predict but I would be hesitant to write UCD off fully. The last point that Andy Myler's team earned was a draw in Sligo and the point was fully merited on the day. Sligo are coming off a draining 120 minutes against Bala Town on Thursday and are no doubt looking ahead to Motherwell this coming Thursday. It is very important, from a Sligo point of view, that they do not slip up here and keep the pressure on those above them. UCD's relegation is far from definite, also. They are more than capable of catching Finn Harps, who are only three points ahead of them. Every point is vital from now until the end of the season for Andy Myler and his side and I feel that sandwiched in between two big European nights, the Students may feel that they can get something out of this game.
Comments