Sligo Rovers will face Europa League representatives Shamrock Rovers on Sunday afternoon in the Showgrounds as they hope to give themselves a little bit of breathing room at the bottom end of the table.
With St Patrick’s Athletic and Galway United only managing a 1-1 draw on Friday night opportunity knocks for the bit o’red to open up a gap.
With the Hoops having played a tough European game on Thursday, Gerard Lyttle’s men will be looking to capitalise on any tiredness that might affect the Shams players.
Manager Gerard Lyttle told he media ahead of the game, “The lads have been fantastic in terms of training, attitude and the tempo in which they work every day.”
“It’s time to stand up and be counted. We can’t keep relying on other results. Teams like Bohemians, Galway and Finn Harps have had little runs at some point in the season and I really feel we’re due. We just need that lucky break to get that one win and I feel it’s coming.”
“The backing we have had is unbelievable. We’ve been getting crowds sometimes approaching 2,000 people and as I say to the boys, imagine what it would be like if we were winning games. Shamrock Rovers are a strong side. They could have their eye on Europe right now and it’s a comedown when you come back from a win there to a league game in between, so we want to catch them on the hop if they are distracted.”
The Bit o’ Red must wait for new signings Rhys McCabe and Benny Igiehon as they will not be registered in time for tomorrow’s game. Also Kyle Callan-McFadden misses out due to suspension.
“Daniel (Kearns) did well on his return. He makes space, can find a pass and will get stronger as the games come. We’re disappointed not to have the new lads but there’s nothing we can do. We have players that can win the game and it would be fantastic to start a run from this game.”
Lyttle also spoke about the club’s fundraising drive, “We see the incredible effort from our supporters like the club’s Annual Draw now over €45,000 – it shows the commitment and backing this club gets from the community. Our job is to reward that because it really is deserved.”