Derry City manager Ruaidhri Higgins
After a frustrating night in Sligo last week where there was little in the way of goalmouth action, it might be a different story back on their home patch.
The clash with St Pat’s Athletic is the focus for manager Ruaidhri Higgins.
But all eyes will be on City’s away clash with title holders Shamrock Rovers on Monday, March 4, at the Tallaght Stadium.
“You have to embrace this type of challenge” he said, when asked about the schedule.
“That’s why we’re in the game. You want to be involved in these big fixtures.
“It’s part of being a successful team, trying to navigate a way through those fixtures and double-headers.
“Our only thought at the minute is trying to get three points against a very good side on Friday night.”
City had good news on the injury front with Patrick McEleney and Cameron Dummigan. They will not feature in this game, however.
“We were able to bring Jordan McEneff and Adam O’Reilly off the bench at the weekend and they are two quality young players in their own right.
“I’m more than happy with the options we have going into the Pat’s game.”
Pat’s had a setback in losing their opening home league game so the trip north is not exactly tantalising.
However, manager Jon Daly is pleased to be back on the pitch after the manner of the late defeat.
“We need to go into the game with optimism and confidence and make sure that we acquit ourselves really well and give ourselves the best chance of coming away with three points.
“Derry are one of the few teams in the league that haven’t had much upheaval.
“They’ve got some fantastic players within their squad that will pose a challenge to us.
“We always bring a good travelling support, and they have a good home support up there, so the atmosphere will be very good and it’s on TV too.
“It’s one that myself, the staff and the players are looking forward to.”
Tom Grivosti (knee and hamstring) is the only absentee for the visitors.
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