Limerick FC welcome Derry City to the Markets Field

Limerick FC will take on Derry City at the Markets Field this Saturday evening in a battle between 4th and 5th in the table (kick-off 6.30 pm). This is the second meeting of the sides in two weeks after they played out a 1-1 draw at Maginn Park. Limerick took the lead in that game through captain Shane Duggan. However, a second-half free-kick from Barry McNamee ensured a share of the spoils.

Limerick endured a 3-0 defeat at the hands of Sligo Rovers last weekend and in the process ended Willie Boland’s unbeaten run as caretaker manager. Limerick had been performing well defensively but were well below par on the night. In the aftermath of the game, Boland stated:

“It’s the one truly bad performance since I’ve been in. Let’s digest it and see what we can do better next time. A week is a very short time in football – a lot can happen. We’ll look forward to the game next week and go into it with a positive frame of mind.”

The Limerick boss will be without Shane Tracy once again but should have a fully fit squad to choose from otherwise. A win would see the Shannonsiders overtake Derry in fourth place which will be incentive enough for the players to perform in front of an expectant crowd. Limerick will be looking to bounce back from their first poor defeat of the season, outside of the Cork game.

Derry City have struggled massively in recent times, winning just one from nine matches. However, the Candystripes are unbeaten in five games with draws against Limerick, Sligo and St. Patricks Athletic coming in that run. Kenny Shiels side picked up a rare win against Bohemians over a week ago. On Monday evening, they picked up a 0-0 draw with Galway United at Eamon Deacy Park. Shiels will have to plan without key man Rory Patterson once again.

Referee: Sean Grant (Wexford)