Derry's 'difficult route' would make cup win an 'outstanding achievement'

Derry manager Ruaidhri Higgins said watching Shelbourne lift the league trophy at the Brandywell was tough. 

Derry City manager Ruaidhrí Higgins. Photo by Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile

Ruaidhri Higgins admitted the sight of Shelbourne lifting the league trophy on Derry City's home patch on Friday night after their own title charge hit the skids will serve as 'fuel' as the Brandywell outfit attempt to end the season with their own piece of silverware.

Not only have the Candystripes their targets locked in on a second FAI Cup triumph in three years when they meet Drogheda United at the Aviva Stadium on Sunday but European football is at stake - an achievement which is now regarded as the minimum given the financial backing from billionaire chairman Philip O'Doherty.