League Preview: Derry City -v- Bohemians
Cameron McJannett of Derry City tussles with Bohemians' Georgie Kelly during the Candystripes' 2-1 win at Dalymount Park on April 30, 2021. Credit: Martin Doherty (ETPhotos)
DERRY CITY
Derry City will be looking to maintain their good recent run of form when they welcome Bohemians to the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium on Friday evening (kick-off is at 7.45pm).
The game will be the first that Derry have played in front of a crowd at the Brandywell since February 2020 – but manager Ruaidhri Higgins is expecting a tough test against Bohs.
“They’re flying- they’ve scored 15 goals in their last 5 league games, so we know the kind of quality they have in attack,” he told his club’s media team.
We have to be on our guard and be ready for that and our plan will be to create problems for them at the other end of the pitch. We’re well capable of that.
“It will be brilliant to have supporters here. I know it might only be a few to start with but the players and staff are really looking forward to having them back and I’m sure they’ll make plenty of noise.”
Danny Lupano is injured and misses out, while Darren Cole is suspended.
BOHEMIANS
Bohemians will be looking to maintain their own upturn in fortunes as they visit Derry City.
The Gypsies won their last game by three goals to nil at home to Waterford – but winger Stephen Mallon is expecting a tough test against his former club.
“Derry have beaten us already this season, so we know we have to be right at it to get a result,” he told his club’s media team.
“I am looking forward to it, I have a lot of respect for the club, and they gave me an opportunity last season.
“We are particularly looking forward to this one as this will be one of the first games with some fans back at games, which everyone is looking forward to seeing, particularly at Dalymount.”
In team news, Tyreke Wilson returns from suspension, while Bastién Hery (calf) is likely to miss out while Promise Omochere (quad) is rated 50-50.
Referee: Robert Harvey.
MATCH STATS
Keith Long’s side have taken 13 points from their last 6 league outings, while Derry City have lost just once since new boss Ruaidhri Higgins took charge.
BETTING
Derry City 2/1; Draw 21/10; Bohemians 6/5.
PREDICTION
Derry City 1 - 0 Bohemians
Derry City
Injured: Danny Lupano.
Doubtful: None.
Suspended: Darren Cole.
Bohemians
Injured: None.
Doubtful: Promise Omochere, Bastien Hery.
Suspended: None.
