Dublin Derby veteran Lopes hoping for Hoops response

The Dublin Derby provides a "great opportunity" for Shamrock Rovers to bounce back from their recent defeat to title challengers Dundalk, according to their defender Roberto Lopes.

Rovers face a busy weekend with two Dublin derbies in four days, as they host Bohemians on Friday night before making the trip to Richmond Park on Monday to face St Patrick's Athletic.

"It was a really tight game against Dundalk, they managed to nick a goal and then they showed the strength to see the game out. It's a great opportunity to bounce back with two big games against rivals."

Lopes, who turned 30 last week, has been playing in the league for over a decade and has experienced the Dublin Derby from both sides of the divide.

"Derby day, form goes out the window. It does not matter where teams are, what sort of run they are on. If you are not up for the battle on the day, you can get turned over just as easy and I know that from experiences with both sides.

"Shamrock Rovers versus Bohemians is one of the biggest games on the calendar."

Lopes has been a mainstay in the Rovers’ defence since his controversial move across the city from Bohs in the winter of 2016, he has missed just two of their 20 league games this season.

"I have been here a long time now and I have been in the league a long time and I have experience in how to deal with the intimidating atmosphere that these games bring. I just try to share that with the team."

Bohs come into the game off the back of an important win over Shelbourne, a Dawson Devoy goal from distance gave Keith Long's side a much-needed three points. Lopes says Rovers cannot afford to take their rivals lightly.

"Keith (Long) and Trevor (Crolly) do a fantastic job every year rebuilding the team because they always