19.45 18 Aug 2014 -
Referee: Paul McLaughlin
League Preview: Sligo Rovers -v- Dundalk
- Gareth O'Reilly
- Mon, Aug 18 2014
SLIGO ROVERS
Sligo are back in the Showgrounds on Monday night for the visit of Stephen Kenney's Dundalk side. Kick off is scheduled for 19.45.
By securing a narrow win over Bray on Friday night the gap between fifth and fourth place is once again down to single figures. That result did not come without a cost as John Russell may not be forced to sit out Monday night's fixture as he nervously awaits the results of a scan on a foot injury.
Danny Ledwith also suffered a knock against Bray but the club have said that he is expected to be in contention to be part of John Coleman's squad despite suffering a head injury.
The bad news for Sligo is that they will definitely be without Jeff Henderson who is still suffering from a foot injury. Raffaele Cretaro is also set to take his place in the stands due to a troublesome calf injury.
Iarfhlaith Davoren is another visitor to the physio's room as he has been ruled out due to a hamstring problem. In more positive news for the bit o'red, Danny North will once again be available having served his suspension for a red card offence.
Having taken over from Ian Baraclough mid way through the season John Coleman now finally believes he has his Sligo team going in the direction that he wants them to.
"We've improved in the last few weeks. We showed good character in Bray and it was a credit to the lads. Dundalk are top of this league for a reason but I've no fears for my players that they won't acquit themselves well."
"We have to take responsibility on Monday, to enthuse the fans and enthuse ourselves and go and try to win the game as we always do."
DUNDALK
Dundalk will be hoping to continue to push on having overcome Limerick on Friday evening. This time round the side that currently sit atop of the table will be making the trip to Sligo.
A draw in the Louth derby over a week ago meant that the gap between the Lilywhites and the chasing back is down to just four points so Stephen Kenny's charges will be under no illusion that they must be fully focused on the task at hand come 7.45 on Monday evening.
Dundalk have managed to remain injury free despite being forced to play a high number of games since their return from the midseason break. The only casualties are long term injury victim Stephen O'Donnell and Simon Kelly who is listed as doubtful due to a calf complaint.
There are no suspension worries for the County Louth side as manager Stephen Kenny may look to use a number of methods to freshen up his tired squad. Keith Ward is also in line for a recall having recently got over a number of injuries to return to full fitness.
Referee: Paul McLaughlin
MATCH FACTS
If Dundalk win on Monday night, it will be their fourth straight victory over Sligo. This is a feat that has not been achieved for 33 years.
Dundalk are currently unbeaten in 15 games in domestic competitions, a win or a draw on Monday will see them accomplish a 16 game streak, something which has not been done since 1989.
Three former Sligo Rovers players are currently in the Lillywhites squad. These are David McMillian, Darren Meenan and Daryl Horgan.
BETTING
Sligo Rovers 23/10; Draw 9/4; Dundalk 11/10
PREDICTION
Sligo Rovers 1-2 Dundalk
Sligo Rovers
Injured: Jeff Henderson (Foot), Raffaele Cretaro (Calf), Iarfhlaith Davoren (Hamstring)
Doubtful: John Russell (Foot)
Suspended:
Dundalk
Injured: Stephen O'Donnell (Knee)
Doubtful: Simon Kelly (Calf)
Suspended: None
About Gareth O'Reilly
Gareth is the Editor of Extratime.ie. Gareth began as a normal reporter covering games all over Dublin before being asked to help out with behind the scene activities and eventually moving into the role of …