Derry’s destiny in their own hands as trio face tense battle for playoff spot

THREE points and nine goals clear of second-placed Waterford United, Derry City travel to Monaghan United this evening knowing that it would take a massive final night swing to deny the Candystripes an automatic return to the top-flight as First Division champions.

However, manager Stephen Kenny is hoping that his side do it in style. “Our players have been extremely consistent and they have played some terrific stuff this season but we have to finish the job now.”

Up to a week ago, tonight’s game was shaping up to be a winner-takes-all affair, but Monaghan’s shock defeat to Mervue United means that, now four points off the pace, they find themselves battling for one of two play-off places alongside Waterford United and Shelbourne.