Kenny Shiels struggling for defenders for tonight’s clash against Shamrock Rovers
DERRY City travel to face Shamrock Rovers tonight, Tuesday, August 29, for a game which will have implications for European qualification for both sides.
It is a hugely important game with third-placed Derry just two points ahead of fourth-placed Rovers (kick off 8 pm).
The Candy Stripes will be looking to bag three points on their travels to Tallagh the Dubliners have two games in hand.
Manager Kenny Shiels is under no illusion at the importance of clash with Rovers.
“It’s a very significant game but we can go there and win,” says Shiels.
“I don’t see why we can’t and that’s the attitude in the dressing room. We want to go there and win and I hope we can do that
“We showed good character against Bray so hopefully we can take that on to Rovers and show the same commitment and passion for the team. We’re massively under-strength but we have to make the most of what we have.”
City go to Tallaght vastly under-strength at the back.
New signing Maximilian Karner lasted just 49 minutes of his debut at Bray Wanderers at the weekend.
With Cristian Castells still struggling for match sharpness, it gives City boss Shiels yet another defensive headache, with Aaron Barry and Ryan McBride both ruled out with long term injuries.
“It’s a groin injury which is the last thing we need because Max hasn’t been playing,” Shiels explained.
“It’s a hard one to take and he’s probably out for Rovers. We haven’t had any luck to be honest.
“We’re going into this game with two teenage full backs (Conor McDermott and Ben Doherty) which is not what we would have wanted, but at least the boys are getting games and learning from it.
“They are learning all the time,” added Shiels
Tonight’s game is live on both BBC Radio Foyle and Drive 105.3FM ‘Match Night Live’ team from 7.45 pm.
