LLOI preview: New leaders Derry face rested Lilywhites

The new leaders of the SSE Airtricity Men's Premier Division Derry City face the first challenge of their position tonight as they travel to take on Galway United tonight.

The only other game tonight sees their main title rivals Shelbourne face a Dundalk side itching to play a game after being on the sidelines for most of this month.

Just 10 points separates the top six sides in the division stretching from the Candystripes to the Tribesmen in sixth as they clash.

Despite some teams having just eight matches left, anything remains possible in a league where every side has something to play for.

City were not overly impressive in winning in Waterford, but did enough in a victory that will give great confidence.

The Candystripes have not looked like title winners in recent weeks, yet they could put themselves in a excellent position if they can bank three points in Eamonn Deacy Park.

Few sides take away a maximum return from the west but that is what Ruadhri Higgins is targeting.

Higgins revealed a massive setback during the week with the news that Cameron Dummigan is set to miss the rest of the campaign due to an injury picked up last week.

They have had plenty of setbacks this year and the manager is confident his side can cope.

Higgins told the Irish News: "It’s part of football and going into the business end of the season it will give someone else an opportunity to step up.

"It’s a blow to him and a blow to us but we have genuine quality in that area, albeit different types of players, but I’m sure we’ll be OK.

"It’ll be a very similar squad to last week that’s available."

Ronan Boyce is back in training to at least bring some comfort.

Galway have been a difficult opponent for City, famously winning in the Brandywell earlier in