First Division league leaders Derry City play travel to Finn Park looking to extending their significant lead at the top of the table. (Kick off 8pm)

The Candystripes currently have a 12 point lead at the top of the division having won seven of their last league games and drawn three. The Derry side look set to go straight back up after being relegated last season for off the field issues.

However the trip to Donegal sees the start of a very compact fixture schedule for the Candystripes which will see them come up against Monaghan, Cork, Limerick and Waterford all in quick succession.

James Gallagher’s side are currently languishing in the lower half of the division having failed to find any form of consistency. Harps have only won once in their last five league games drawing and losing two in that run.

Harps will be without Kevin McHugh who serves the second of a three game suspension. Ciaran Gallagher remains sidelined while new signing Shane O’Connor is available for selection.

McHugh has been a big loss to the side having been their top scorer with seven league goals while Shane O’Connor is expected to bring some depth to the squad.

The hosts were beaten 2-1 last week against Cork City and James Gallagher felt that his side didn’t defend enough.

“We had two or three great chances ourselves which we didn't take, and although we could use the excuse that we were a wee bit leggy for their goal but I think overall on the night we didn't defend well enough. We certainly didn't defend as well as we are capable.”

Speaking ahead of Friday night’s clash Gallagher has said: “You could approach it in the manner where you say very little prior to the game and leave it to the boys, but that won’t be the way I’ll be approaching it. It’s a big derby and we’re at home. As well as the derby factor, we’re inviting the best team in the league to our place so we’ll want to measure ourselves the best way we can. I’ll be getting the boys pumped up and telling them to just go out and have a go at them. It will be a matter of giving it everything we have, not giving away silly mistakes and come the end of the game if we’ve done that, then we’ll always be in with a chance of getting something with the attacking players we have.”

Speaking to the Derry Journal on the upcoming fixture congestion Stephen Kenny said “That will be a test for us but that’s all part of trying to challenge for things. You get these tests and you have to come through them”

Finn Harps
Injured: Ciaran Gallagher
Doubtful: None
Suspended: Kevin McHugh

Derry City
Injured: Mark McChrystal.
Doubtful: N/A
Suspended: None

Referee: P.Tuite

Extratime prediction: Derry City 2-0