LOI preview: Hoops aim to cut Bohs from title race

Shamrock Rovers can expel another member of the League of Ireland Premier Division title race when arch-rivals Bohemians visit Tallaght Stadium tonight.

The Hoops ground out a 1-0 win over Dundalk last week to move their opponents out of the top half and grew their lead over Bohs and Derry City.

Those sides battled out a draw at Dalymount Park – a result which did much for either team – and seven points now separate them from the leaders.

Tonight's fixtures are arguably the most important of the season so far given the top six sides are facing off.

The destination of the title and European places go a long way to be decided here.

A win for Stephen Bradley’s side would leave the Gypsies out of the running and move the champions a step closer to their desired four in a row.

Derry face another tough away fixture as they travel to Oriel Park, meaning what seemed like a potential five-way title race could descend into a much more simpler affair if they falter once more.

St Pat’s were unimpressive in UCD last week, but crucially came away with three points, and they are in the ascendancy when it comes to being the main challenger.

Jon Daly will bring his side across the city to face Shelbourne side that will be high on confidence after moving to within four points of the top four.

The Reds have manoeuvred themselves into a shot at the top four. Remarkably if you take out the fixtures with St Pat’s, Damien Duff’s side have not tasted defeat since the final day of March.

The two defeats in the last 21 matches came at the hands of Pat’s, a sign of just how hard Duff has made them to beat.

It’s not just a big night for the six teams chasing for the end of season prizes.

Cork City and Sligo Rovers have had miserable years and it is set to get