League Preview: Derry City -v- Dundalk

DERRY CITY

In-form Derry City take on Dundalk in a crucial clash outside the European positions at the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium this afternoon (kick-off is at 3pm).

The Candystripes have shown their apparent qualities in recent weeks, and they will be looking to add to their points tally against the Lilywhites this weekend.

But manager Ruaidhri Higgins is expecting a stiff test against his former employers.

“We have prepared well, but in games like this you have to be tactically aware too.

“I watched Dundalk’s game against St Pats last week and their first half performance was exceptional.

“The score-line was strange to be honest, but we know on their day they can beat anyone.

“Our players are in good form, and we are looking forward to the game.

“We are playing well ourselves and we know we have a lot of players who can hurt them as well.”

In terms of team news for Derry, Marc Walsh remains out. Junior Ogedi-Uzokwe cannot play against his parent club. Meanwhile, Eoin Toal returns after a spell in isolation.

DUNDALK

Dundalk return to league action this weekend as they take on fellow European hopefuls Derry City.

The Lilywhites crashed out of Europe on Thursday night against Vitesse Arnhem with a 4-3 aggregate defeat.

But despite their patchy league form this season, their manager is confident his side can return to European football next year.

“I think qualifying for Europe is really achievable,” Vinny Perth said while speaking to his club’s media team.

“We need a few things to go our way, but I think we can do it and it’s up to myself and the players to lead the club back into Europe again.

“It’s going to be a real challenge for us on Sunday,” he added.

“Derry City are obviously a lot fresher than we are so we will have to be at our best but it’s a challenge we are all looking forward to.”

In terms of team news for Dundalk, Daniel Cleary returns from injury as Brian Gartland continues to miss out.

Referee: Damien MacGraith.

BETTING

Derry City 9/5; Draw 2/1; Dundalk 6/4.

PREDICTION

Derry City 1 - 3 Dundalk

Derry City

Injured: Marc Walsh

Doubtful: None.

Unavailable: Junior Ogedi-Uzokwe.

Suspended: None.

Dundalk

Injured: Brian Gartland.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.