The last FAI Cup quarter-final between EA Sports Cup winners Derry City and Bohemians, postponed due to International call-ups, will take on Wednesday night at the Brandywell.
It’s unfortunate that the game clashes with the UEFA Champions League Group Stage, as Derry will been hoping for a large turnout following their Cup triumph over Cobh Ramblers on Sunday.
With a home semi-final against last season’s double-winners Cork City on offer for the winners, you can expect both sides to go hell for leather in search of victory.
Keith Long’s side go into the game off the back of their best performance of the season, a 4-2 win over Cork City on Friday night, a game that was broadcast live on Eir Sport.
Bohemians recently put an end to a 10-match losing run against Derry with a 2-0 win at the Brandywell, with goals from Dinny Corcoran and Daniel Kelly, so the game won’t hold any fear for the gypsies.
The Candystripes have no suspensions heading into the game, however defender Conor McDermott is still recovering from a hip injury after having successful surgery. Nicky Low returned to the team on Sunday as a second-half substitute so should be available.
City manager Kenny Shiels knows how difficult it will be for his side, “They are the in-form team in the country at the minute. They will travel full of confidence after winning here recently and Friday night’s excellent performance against Cork.”
“They have a fantastic set-up and a great youth structure and are very much favourites to go through. That said, we’ll be well up for the game and hopefully a lot of those who were here on Sunday will be back to lift us for what is another huge game.”
“If they play the way they played the last time and we play the way we did then the result is a foregone conclusion.”
For Bohemians Ryan Masterson (quad), Danny Grant (bug) and Darragh Leahy (groin) are doubtful for the game, while Cristian Magerusan (hamstring) and Ryan Swan (cruciate) are ruled out.
Keith Long knows both sides are in form heading into the game and he’s looking forward to it, “There is a lot at stake for both clubs, it’s a huge game. But we are looking forward to it.
“Our league win up there a few weeks ago will have no bearing on this game. We’re obviously on a good run but Derry will be on a high after winning the EA Sports Cup on Sunday too.”
“We’re going into the game focused and having prepared professionally. It’s two teams coming into the game feeling they can win it. Something will have to give,” continued Long.
Should the game end in a draw the replay will take place this Saturday in Dalymount Park.