League of Ireland Preview: Shamrock Rovers seek first win in trip to Sligo

Sligo Rovers v Shamrock Rovers, Showgrounds, 7.45pm

It's the season's first battle of the Rovers in Sligo tonight and the sides are coming in in very different form to how they finished the last campaign.

The champions beat Sligo 4-2 in the final round last November but have yet to win in their three league games in 2024, draws with Dundalk and Derry - courtesy of an injury-time equaliser - sandwiching their defeat to Dublin rivals Shelbourne a fortnight ago.

Of course, the visitors failed to win their first six games last year but still claimed the title by seven points.

Coincidentally, Sligo have had the same opponents so far. They also drew with Derry and lost to Shels but got off the mark in spectacular fashion with a 5-0 win at Oriel Park on Monday night.

Sligo manager John Russell was delighted with his side's finishing at Dundalk but is aware the five-in-a-row-chasing Hoops should pose a tougher test.

"It was vital to pick up the three points on Monday night in what is such a tight and competitive league", he said.

"We've shown a real hunger and desire in all our games so far but against Dundalk we managed to add that ruthlessness in the final third."

"We know the quality Shamrock Rovers bring coming into the game. They have players that can hurt you all over the pitch. They have set the benchmark for the past few seasons but it’s important that we focus on ourselves.

"I have such belief in this group of players and staff. If we continue to work hard and improve our connections we will get our rewards over the course of the year."

John Mahon is Sligo's only absentee as he continues to recover from a long-term injury.

As they await their first victory, Shamrock Rovers manager Stephen Bradley said he had warned his players