Rovers out to challenge Bohs bid

Shamrock Rovers will be out to scupper rivals Bohemians' title challenge when they travel to Dalymount Park for tonight's Dublin derby, kick-off 8pm.

Bohs boss Pat Fenlon must plan without Jason McGuinness (knee), Ken Oman (ankle) and Liam Burns (hamstring).

Glenn Cronin is also ruled out with a knee injury.

Fenlon said: "The loss of all three of our centre halves is a major setback, but our squad is strong and we will put out a competitive side no matter who fills in at that position.

"In terms of motivation, the game will look after itself. Rovers will work very hard for each other and we will have to match their desire. I'd hope that if we can do that we can go on and win the game. We are down to the bare bones, but it's up to the players on the park to put in a good performance regardless."

For Rovers, Aidan Price (ankle) is out injured, while there are doubts about the fitness of Danny O'Connor (calf), Darragh Maguire (thigh), Tadhg Purcell (ankle), Corey Treacy (hip) and Joseph Ndo (knee).

"We took a few knocks up in Derry last Friday," said Hoops boss Pat Scully.

"Aidan's injury is not as bad as we feared, but he'll definitely be out for the next three weeks.

"As for the rest, we'll just have to wait and see. I'd be hopeful for Corey, while Tadhg, Danny and Darragh might make it. Joseph had to have an injection for his knee and will now probably miss the game."

He added: "They've (Bohemians) a very experienced team, with players who have played in England and at the top of the League of Ireland for years. They're also a very tall, strong and physical team.

"It's a real one-off whenever Rovers play Bohs and form rarely plays a part. It's going to be a battle in Dalymount, so we'll have to stand up and make sure we win that battle."