Shamrock Rovers v Derry City

• Alan Smith
• Thu, Nov 06 2008




Shamrock Rovers welcome Derry City to Tolka Park tomorrow night in what will be their last 'home' game before moving to Tallaght next season.

Caretaker boss Jim Crawford was keen to mention the importance of this momentous occasion for the club as a whole "As it's not just the last home game of the season, but the last home game before Rovers move to Tallaght, it's a very important occasion for the club and its fans.

"For that reason alone we'd really like to put on a good performance. The players are very aware of the significance of this game to the supporters and I believe they'll respond.” added the stand-in boss.

The home side will be without Eric McGill and Darren Stapleton who are injured, while Darragh Maguire is suspended. While Crawford also has doubts over John Martin and Corie Treacy who will both be given until the last minute to prove their fitness.

Derry travel to Dublin with 2nd place still up for grabs. Peter Hutton is ruled out with a groin injury. Stephen Kenny's men will also be without the foursome of Stephen Gray, Kevin McHugh, Kevin Deery, Billy Dennehy who are all suspended for the game.

Speaking to derrycityfc.net, assistant manager Alan Reynolds thinks that the Candystripes can cope despite the depleted squad. "The Rovers game is a big match for us, it is one of only three remaining league fixtures this season, second spot is still achievable and we always aim to finish as high up the table as possible. Rovers have given us tough games this season, and we expect more of the same at Tolka this Friday, we have quite a number of suspensions for the game, so there will be changes to the side, but we have a good squad at the Brandywell.”

However, Reynolds was also eager to express caution going into the tie. “Rovers were unlucky in their last outing and will be up for this one, its their last match at Tolka before their move to Tallaght and will be looking for a win so we fully expect a tough game, our preparation has been good,and hopefully that will serve us well"

Extratime.ie Prediction: Derry are only three points behind Pats but will need to win to have any chance of finishing in the runners-up spot. It would be fitting to see Rovers end their homeless journey with a win before starting off in Tallaght next season. However, a draw looks like a decent bet. 1-1.