League Preview: Sligo Rovers -v- Dundalk

SLIGO ROVERS

Sligo Rovers will be seeking a home win to all but secure their top-flight status for another year when they host Dundalk at the Showgrounds (kick-off is at 7.45pm).

The Bit O’ Red are nine points ahead of Cork City with just four games left to play so they should have enough in the tank to ease to safety.

But a win at home to Dundalk would confirm it.

And they will be boosted this weekend following the return of trio Stefan Radoslajevic, Nando Pijnaker and Conor Walsh from international duty.

But Mark Byrne and Gary Boylan remain long-term injury absentees for Rovers.

DUNDALK

Dundalk boss Stephen O’Donnell has vowed to freshen his side up ahead of their trip to Sligo on Friday night.

The Lilywhites have endured a wretched few weeks which has all but ended their hopes of reaching the European places.

But O’Donnell explained: “There is obviously still an outside chance of us finishing fourth.

“From our point of view, I want the players to show some hunger, some exuberance and some enthusiasm to finish the season well.

“It’s been a turbulent campaign and it’s important that our attitude is spot on for the last three games.

“It’s a good opportunity to give players a chance. There’ll be a bit of freshness about the team and I’m looking forward to seeing how those players fare at a difficult venue.”

Louie Annesley is Dundalk sole doubt for the game.

Referee: Paul McLaughlin.

PREDICTION

Sligo Rovers 2-1 Dundalk

Sligo Rovers

Injured: Gary Boylan, Mark Byrne.

Doubtful: None.

Suspended: None.

Dundalk

Injured: None.

Doubtful: Louie Annesley.

Suspended: None.