Sligo looking to extend lead

With Drogheda United contesting the EA Sports Cup final tomorrow, Sligo Rovers will seek to take advantage in the Airtricity League tonight by extending their lead at the top of the Premier Division to nine points when they take on Bray Wanderers at the Carlisle Grounds (kick off 7.05pm, live on RTÉ 2).

Sligo go into the game boosted by the news that Mark Quigley has been named the Airtricity/Soccer Writers Association of Ireland Player of the Month for August.

“Obviously, it is a team game,” the striker reflects, “but it’s nice to pick up individual awards as it shows that you have been doing well. But the main thing that I want to win is the League, which would be great for this team.

“Bray are a team that sometimes struggles, but I know from playing against them through the years that they always give you a tough game. We won’t be taking them lightly, especially since it is on their patch.”

For Bray, Jason Byrne and Dean Zambra, who both missed last week’s 2-0 defeat in Cork. are back in contention for the visit of the league leaders.

Director of Football Pat Devlin said: " “It will be a tough game for us against the League leaders — it’s always tough against Sligo — but we are looking forward to it.’’

For their part, Cork City will be aiming to continue their recent good form when they travel to Dalymount to face Bohemians. City boss Tommy Dunne said: “We have won three out of our last four, which is not a bad run of form coming into the end of the season. We have already started our preparations for next year, and we want to keep that momentum going.”

Gearóid Morrissey has been given a two-game ban following his sending off against Bray Wanderers, while Ian Turner has been handed a one-game ban following his dismissal in the same game. Cathal Lordan (knee) remains sidelined, as does Brian Lenihan (hamstring). On a more positive note, Dunne is hopeful both John Dunleavy (ankle) and Colin Healy (thigh) might be available for the trip to Dublin.

For Bohs, Derek Pender is suspended and Ryan McEvoy (ankle) is unlikely to be fit. Kevin Feely returned yesterday from a trial at Stoke City and will be assessed. Latest signing Garreth O’Connor is likely to be in the match-day squad.

In tonight’s other Premier Division games Derry City host UCD while Dundalk are at home to Shels.

In the First Division, the big game sees third play second, as Waterford United welcome Longford Town to the RSC while leaders Limerick will be firm favourites to come out top on their visit to basement side SD Galway. In the remaining fixtures, Athlone Town host Mervue United and Wexford Youths are at home to Finn Harps.