Ringsend Derby at Tallaght Stadium. Not to be missed!

Match Preview - Shamrock Rovers vs. Shelbourne FC

It's a Ringsend Derby this Friday as Shamrock Rovers take on Shelbourne FC in the Airtricity League.Rovers are going into the game confident after winning their recent test against Dundalk in the EA Sports Cup earlier this week. The game consisted of many chances created by both teams, but it was Ciaran Kilduff who came to the rescue for the Hoops just before the hour mark.

Kevin Doherty is taking charge of the boys in red this week as interim manager at the club. Shelbourne's last performance against St. Pats was mixed to say the least. Their first half performance was strong and the score was nil all at half time. Football is a game of two halves and this was certainly evident in the Dublin Derby. Second half goals from Christy Fagan (2) and Chris Forrester saw Liam Buckley's side secure a 3-0 win against Shels.

A lot of players have been ruled out for the Derby and many who are doubtful. Danny Ledwith, Mark Quigley and Pat Sullivan have all been ruled out of the clash due to hamstring injuries. Lorcan Shannon is also unfit to play due to a foot injury. Derek Foran is also a doubt with a bruised foot but his fitness will be assessed at tonight's training session. 

Shelbourne have two suspended players unable to play in Friday's game including former Hoop Jack Memery and Brian Shortall as Memery received a red card in their recent defeat to Pats and Shortall got his fourth yellow card against Dundalk. Also doubtful are Sean Brennan, Adam Hanlon, Philly Hughes ,Stephen Hurley, Dean Kelly and Niall Burdon all being treated for injuries this week.

Conor Powell has returned from injury and is available for selection for the match. Shels will be hopeful to see Glen Cronin and Paul Crowley return to the squad for the tie.

Unfortunately, a win for either side this week will not have a major impact on the league table! Rovers being sixth in the league on 18 points, having drawn nine out of fourteen games, will be eager to win this test! Shelbourne, scraping the bottom will also be hoping to add to their only win of the season. A draw will see Rovers hit their tenth draw of the season and will see Shelbourne trail further at the bottom.

A game not to be missed this week! Kick off is at 8pm at Tallaght stadium.