LOI preview: Derry City must win to keep Premier Division title race alive

There are two matches in the League of Ireland Premier Division tonight as Derry City look to keep the title race alive.

The Candystripes are in Drogheda, knowing they can reduce the lead at the top to just two points.

Time is running out for City as Shamrock Rovers have, on paper, an easier run-in. Points on the board will at least put pressure on Stephen Bradley's men.

There is also a vital clash in the race for Europe with Shelbourne and Dundalk meeting at Tolka Park.

Whichever side fails to win tonight - or even both - would face a struggle to reach third position.

Fourth might be good enough if St Patrick's Athletic win the FAI Cup and this is a potential do or die clash for the teams currently chasing Bohemians.

Three matches are postponed as the FAI Cup semi-finals take place on Saturday. Those games will take place on Monday, 23 October.

Drogheda United v Derry City, Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium, 7.45pm

A point in this game will mean Drogheda United are mathematically safe after a superb season.

Kevin Doherty has pulled off some remarkable results this season. With American investment coming in, they will be celebrating tonight if a positive result is achieved.

With matches running out it has all the makings of a 'must-win' contest for the visitors, however Ruaidhri Higgins is well aware that it will be easier said than done.

"They're a very difficult side to beat and they've produced some big results throughout the season.

"Kevin and Daire and the staff and players down there deserve huge credit for the job they're doing; especially as they're one of the few clubs in the league without a big budget.

"What they do have is a good mix of experience and quality young players, and this will be another tough night for us.

"We