LOI preview: Battle on to hold lead at midway point

Shelbourne and Derry City are aiming to be in top spot in the League of Ireland Premier Division when the mid-season breaks begins at the end of tonight's matches despite difficult games on the road.

Indeed the clash of Waterford and the Reds brings together the two sides far outperforming expectations for the season.

Victory for the Blues would arguably put them in the title picture, knowing they would be six points off the top with a game in hand.

Six wins in eight matches has been a magnificent return for Keith Long’s – including taking a maximum return from four home matches – and there will be another huge turnout at the RSC for the visit of the leaders.

While talk of the title may be unrealistic, Long has positioned Waterford into major European contenders with the sides below them struggling for consistency.

Barry Baggley and Maleace Asamoah both remain on the sidelines.

"Our focus is all about improving game on game. We want to continue to gel performance-wise and continue to improve as a squad.

"The depth of our squad has been challenged - missing some key players, but those that have come inn have taken their opportunity which shows the value of the squad. It's no longer a game of 1-11, but having a squad that has people ready to take their opportunity when it comes around.

"The support at home at the RSC has been brilliant in recent weeks. We want that to continue again on Thursday. We want big games at the RSC, and we need our supporters to back us again like they done massively lately.

"Shelbourne are a good side; top of the league for a reason with good players. They're a highly motivated and well organised side. It's a tough task ahead of us but we're looking forward to the challenge."

Derrycan profit from any Shels