LOI preview: Derry City first up among title chasers

Derry City know they must take advantage of being first to fire among the title chasers as struggling Dundalk visit the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium.

City secured a point in Tolka Park on Monday in what was billed as a potential title decider but ended up something of a damp squib.

They remain very much in the hunt and victory over a struggling Dundalk would move the Candystripes top of the table, albeit with two game extra played.

Shelbourne are in Sligo on Saturday night in what on paper is a difficult game for Damien Duff's side.

The Lilywhites are facing the reality they are set to be in the relegation play-off at best after last week’s demoralising loss to Galway United.

Like Derry, they can’t afford any slip-ups.

The Dundalk game will bring its own challenges of course and the Limavady man knows only too well that the Louth side have plenty of motivation of their own.

City boss Ruaidhrí Higgins has dismissed any talk this will be an easier night for his side:

"It's been that kind of league this year and every game presents its own challenge.

There is so little between a lot of teams.

"Dundalk have a list of league winners in their side and they'll have a clear plan coming here. We have to be ready for that and the mood around the place this week leaves me in no doubt that we will be.

"Form-wise, apart from a poor performance in the first leg of our European tie in Gibraltar, we've been very good over the past six or eight weeks.

"We're in a much better place in terms of the squad too- both Ronan Boyce and Jordan McEneff have put their hands up after injury to let us know they're ready.

"Shane McEleney has recovered from his knock and he should be involved which is a great help with Sam Todd suspended.

"Patrick (McEleney)