Kenny: Derry top on merit

STEPHEN KENNY insists Derry City deserve to top the table as they defend their 13-match unbeaten run in the game of the weekend at Sligo Rovers this afternoon.

Just goal difference has Derry ahead of champions Shamrock Rovers, who have a game in hand, so any slip up at the Showgrounds could see Kenny’s Candystripes overtaken.

“We’ve been on a brilliant run,” said Kenny. “We’ve lost less games than any other team and we’ve scored more goals that any other team, so we’re at the top on merit. We’ve been playing fluent, attacking football.”

Kenny remains without winger Gareth McGlynn (knee) while captain Kevin Deery and Michael McCrudden, who have ankle injuries, face late fitness tests. With Alan Keane and John Russell both back fit and keeper Brendan Clarke over a suspension, Sligo have a full squad at boss Paul Cook’s disposal.

“We’ve got nine games,” said Cook. “I think if you win all nine you win the league.

“I’m not saying we will do that, but we have to take each one at a time and give it a go. You have to go with the mindset that you are the best team in the league. This is a pivotal weekend.

Shamrock Rovers’ new signings defender Jim Paterson and attacking midfielder Rohan Ricketts, are unlikely to feature in their squad for the trip to Dundalk’s Oriel Park.

Dean Kelly, Ken Oman and Conor McCormack all remain out while boss Michael O’Neill waits on midfielder Ronan Finn (knee).

“It’s a big game for us, and gets us back focused on the league,” said O’Neill.

“We’re coming in to the final quarter and our aim is to win every game this quarter.”

Dundalk remain without injured trio Eoghan Osborne, Stephen McDonnell and Stephen Maher.

“We go into the Drogheda game looking to win points that will aid our cause to secure Premier Division soccer for the club again next year,” says UCD boss Martin Russell ahead of the basement battle at the UCD Bowl.

“The players realise this is the best arena for their development and will continue to strive towards performances that see us continuing to progress.”

Drogheda are without suspended skipper Dave Rogers but boss Mick Cooke has defender Stephen Quigley back from a ban. Also available are defender Robbie Clarke and midfielder Peter McMahon.

“Neither of us will want to lose the game,” said Cooke. “I’ll not rest until it’s mathematically impossible for Galway to catch us and my new goal for the rest of the season is to get as close to Bray as possible.”

Bohemians are without Liam Burns and Christy Fagan (suspended) as they prepare for the visit of Bray Wanderers.

Bray are stretched, particularly in midfield, in the absence of the experienced Danny O’Connor and Gary Dempsey. Central defender Adam Mitchell is also out through suspension along with fringe player Stephen Last. Boss Pat Devlin adds Gary Shaw, Conor Butler and Anthony Bolger to his squad.

“What a great opportunity it is for us to bounce back, no better place than Dalymount and against Bohs,” said Devlin in reference to their 4-0 FAI Cup exit to Limerick.

Striker Ian Daly is the only St Pat’s absentee for the visit of bottom side Galway United to Richmond Park.