Rovers v Derry
TEAM NEWS
Shamrock Rovers will be without several first-team players for Friday’s trip to the Brandywell to face Derry City.
As well as the long-term injured trio of Aidan Price, Padraig Amond and John Martin, Ger Rowe and Paul Shiels are both suspended, while Eric McGill and Alan Reynolds are also sidelined.
“Ger would’ve been out anyway as he went over his ankle,” says Hoops’ boss, Pat Scully. “Eric McGill has a rib problem while Alan Reynolds is suffering from a very bad virus.”
WHAT SCULLY SAYS .
about last week’s 0-0 draw against Sligo Rovers
"I was disappointed because the game was there to be won, but we just weren’t brave enough to go on and win it. But it also shows the strides we’ve made at the club.
"Sligo are full-time, they’ve got a decent budget, but we’re expected to beat them. And not just Sligo, but all the top sides such as Drogheda United and Cork City.
"If you look at where we are to where we were two years ago, we should be absolutely delighted with the progress that we’ve made both on and off the pitch.
“But Shamrock Rovers is a special club. It’s different to every other club in Ireland. It’s all about expectations and where we want to bring this club.”
about Friday’s game against Derry City
"Going to the Brandywell is always tough and we won’t be fooled by their current league position. We know they’re a very good side they just never got going this year.
"We’ve had a lot of young lads under 20 playing a lot of games for us this season and they’re learning that it’s all about adjusting to the pressure that comes at this club.
“Games such as this one require players to be brave. That’s what separates the really good players from those who might have ability but can’t cope with the mental side of the game.”