Shelbourne v Derry City: League of Ireland Premier Division (8-6-13)

By Aidan Geraghty

@Aidan Geraghty5

Shelbourne host Derry City on Saturday night at Tolka Park with an 8pm kick off time.

 

Since the arrival of Johnny McDonnell, Shels have experienced 2 wins from 2, albeit against lacklustre opposition. They kicked off Johnny Mac's reign in Drumcondra with a 3-0 win against Bandon from the MSL Premier Division and followed it up with a 2-1 win against relegation rivals UCD in the LSC Quarter Final on Tuesday last.

The Candystripes also progressed to the next round of the FAI Cup last weekend with a 3-goal victory over Corkonian opposition; they beat Blarney United 4-0. However, they had trouble with the Rebel County's senior club, when they stumbled to a 1-1 draw with Cork City at the Brandywell two weeks ago.

For the Reds, Paul Crowley remains absent with a knee injury and club captain Glenn Cronin has resumed training following his ankle surgery, but it is doubtful that he will make an appearance this weekend. AFC Bournemouth stalwart Garreth O'Connor has signed for Shelbourne and the club hopes his registration will be complete come Saturday evening. McDonnell has announced his back room staff also; former Shels player Mick Byrne will be his assistant, former Oldham goalkeeper Charlie Tierney will be the GK coach and Kevin Doherty will remain on board as a First-Team Coach. Other positions have been filled internally.

 

For Derry, Ruaidhrí Higgins, Seán Houston and Thomas Crawley are expected to sit out. Barry Molloy is doubtful.

Neither side has any suspensions.

Prediction: Shels 1-2 Derry.

BETTING (Paddy Power)

Shelbourne 13/2

Draw 10/3

Derry 2/5