Dundalk ‘ready to go’ against Candystripes

The big games are coming thick and fast for Dundalk as the champions continue the defence of their league crown at home to Derry City tonight (7.45pm, live on RTÉ 2).

Tuesday’s 1-1 draw with Shamrock Rovers means the leaders are now just five points clear of Cork City who have a game in hand but aren’t playing until tomorrow evening when they travel to the Showgrounds to face Sligo Rovers.

The visit of third-placed Derry to Oriel Park this evening, as well as being an important game at the top of the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division, doubles as a dress rehearsal for next week’s FAI Cup semi-final, also at Oriel, between the two clubs.