League Preview: Bohemians -v- Shamrock Rovers

BOHEMIANS

Second meets third in the Premier Division as Bohemians renew their age-old rivalry with Shamrock Rovers at a sold-out Dalymount Park on Friday evening (kick-off is at 8pm).

After five games without a win, Bohs have won their last two on the spin with wins over Cork City and Finn Harps at Dalymount Park.

The Gypsies most recent outing came against the Co. Donegal where Keith Long’s charges came out on top in a 5-3 thriller.

Ryan Swan, the hat-trick hero from the win over Ollie Horgan’s side spoke to Bohemianfc.com where he revealed his delight after getting on the mark after his long-term injury nightmare at the club.  

“I knew I would have to bide my tine. It was never going to be easy the way Dinny started the season and the impact.

“I just had to keep my head down and take my chance when it came.”

Looking ahead, the former UCD man admits that he is just looking at the keenly anticipated derby against Shamrock Rovers as another day at the office.

“For me you have to look at it as just another game.

“I’ve prepared for it like it’s no different to any other game. You eat, sleep and train the same way and focus on what is required of you.”

Bohs have a fairly hefty injury list to contend with as Rob Cornwall, Dinny Corcoran, Danny Grant and Cristian Magerusan are ruled out with injury.  

Derek Pender and James Finnerty both miss out due to suspension while Darragh Leahy is unavailable with international commitments at the Toulon Tournament.

Keith Buckley and Robbie McCourt both return, however.

SHAMROCK ROVERS

Stephen Bradley will be hoping that his Shamrock Rovers side can end their hoodoo against Bohemians on Friday evening when they travel to Dalymount Park.

The Gypsies have beaten the Hoops on each of their last three encounters as indiscipline has cost the title-chasing Tallaght outfit dearly against their Northside rivals.

Speaking to his club’s media team, Bradley is hoping that his side will rise to the occasion at the cauldron that is Dalymount Park.  

“If we play like we did against Derry you win 99% of your games. We were very good but sometimes these things happen.

“Bohs is a big game and one that we’re looking forward to. Derbies are always different games, but we’ll go there with a game plan to go and win the game.

“So tomorrow we just need to perform like we have been this season. We’ve sold out our allocation, so it’ll be a good crowd. Our fans have been great all year.” 

Sean Kavanagh returns for Shamrock Rovers as both Sam Bone and Aaron McEneff are ruled out of action with injury.

Referee: Robert Rogers.

MATCH STATS

Bohemians have won six of the previous seven games against their Southside foes. The Hoops last win over Bohs came all the way back in May 2017.

Shamrock Rovers have seen three red cards dished out against them in their previous two defeats to the Gypsies.

The Hoops have not picked up a point in any their last three visits to Dalymount Park.

BETTING

Bohemians 7/2; Draw 23/10; Bohemians 5/6.

PREDICTION

Bohemians 1 - 2 Shamrock Rovers

Bohemians

Injured: Rob Cornwall, Dinny Corcoran, Danny Grant, Christian Magerusan.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: Derek Pender, James Finnerty.

Unavailable: Darragh Leahy (Toulon Tournament).  

Shamrock Rovers

Injured: Aaron McEneff, Sam Bone.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.