Bohemians looking to extend title advantage

CHAMPIONS Bohemians can open an eight-point gap at the top of the League of Ireland Premier Division, if only for a day, if they can overcome a recently resurgent Drogheda United tonight.

Manager Pat Fenlon has few injury concerns ahead of the game.

Skipper Owen Heary has returned to training but may not be fit enough in time.

Defender Jason McGuinness is struggling with a back injury but Fenlon expects him to be available.

“It’s going to be a tough game for us. The Shamrock Rovers game last Sunday at Dalymount Park and the scoreless draw looked after itself and we were up for that. So I think it’s more about the players’ attitude going into this game.”

Before losing their last two games against Bray Wanderers and neighbours Dundalk, Drogheda had a six-game unbeaten run and Fenlon isn’t taking them for granted.

“They’ve given us two tough games already this season and we were lucky to win both of them. It’s going to be tough.”

Drogheda boss Alan Matthews, still anxious to add to his squad during the mid-season transfer window, will make minor adjustments as he bids to lift his team out of the relegation zone.

Galway United may give a last appearance to gifted midfielder Jay O’Shea before his inevitable transfer to a English club when they play host to neighbours Sligo Rovers at Terryland Park.

Last week’s 2-1 away victory over Bray Wanderers hoisted the Westerners to a sixth place in the table.

Sligo, still third from bottom, will be hoping to build on last week’s 2-1 victory over St Patrick’s Athletic.and manager Paul Cook will be boosted by the return of central defender Gavin Peers after a lengthy injury absence.