The Lilywhites took the lead in the 18th minute when the side’s top scorer Patrick Hoban found the net.

However, the lead only lasted two minutes before Sligo were level with their opponents once more through Andre Wright.

The hosts added a second courtesy of Lewis Banks at the start of the second half and kept Dundalk at bay to continue the revival of their title chase.

The Bit O’Red had snapped an eight-game winless streak when they beat second-placed St Patrick’s Athletic 2-0 on Friday night.

Dundalk started the brightest of the two sides and Hoban came close before he notched the Louth side’s opener after shot by former Derry City loanee Will Patching came his way.

Poor defending by Sligo led to Hoban’s chance but the hosts came alive after conceding and responded instantly through Wright, who latched on to midfielder David Cawley’s cross to bring his side level – it was Wright’s first goal for the club.

Sligo settled after their equaliser and the sides went in level at half time.

It only took seven minutes for the fans at The Showgrounds to celebrate again after Greg Bolger’s delivery from a set-piece found Lewis Banks, who headed past Dundalk goalkeeper Alessio Abibi.

Sligo maintained control of their lead until the final whistle and now sit five points off second with a game-in-hand.

Dundalk, who also have a game-in-hand, failed to move off the relegation play-off spot and sit one point behind Waterford with a better goal difference.

Sligo Rovers travel to Tallaght Stadium to face league leaders Shamrock Rovers on Saturday, while Dundalk will play Finn Harps in the FAI Cup quarter-final before facing Sligo Rovers once again in their next league fixture.

Sligo Rovers (4-3-1-2): McGinty; Banks, Mahon, Buckley, McCourt; Cawley (Horgan 80), Bolger, McDonnell (Morahan 71); De Vries (Figueira 65); Wright, Kenny (Lorenzen 65).

Dundalk (4-4-1-1): Abibi; Jurkovskis, Boyle, Nattestad, Dumigan; Ben Amar (Animasahun 58), Stanton (Murray 78), Sloggett, Duffy; Patching; Hoban.

Referee: Ben Connolly.

The post Sligo Rovers Pile More Pressure On Dundalk With 2-1 Win appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

The best known link between the Merseyside club and the Bit O’Red was the 2009 signing of the then 20-year-old Seamus Coleman. The Killybegs native has went on to make over 300 first team appearances for the Premier League side. He has also captained both club and country during this time.

However, it is far from the first link between the two side. In 1939 Everton’s record goalscorer William Ralph “Dixie” Dean signed for Sligo Rovers. In his brief cameo at the club he scored ten goals in seven games. His five goals in a 7-1 win over Waterford is a club record that still remains to this day. He also picked up an FAI cup runners-up medal. Rovers losing out to Shelbourne 1-0 after a replay in that years cup final.

This formal partnership between Everton and a League of Ireland club is not a first by any means. In 1995 Home Farm agreed a deal wereby they were sponsored by the Merseyside giants. In return Home Farm Everton, as they were know for four seasons, gave Everton first refusal on their academy players. Future Irish international Richard Dunne was signed by the club as a result of this deal.

This partnership may pave the way for similar tie-ups between League of Ireland clubs and top flight English teams. New employment regulations resulting from Brexit preclude English sides from signing u-18 players. Ireland may act as a base for Premier league sides to train young talent. One would hope this would have a beneficial effect on opportunities for young Irish players and in the long run the national side.

The post Sligo Rovers and Everton announce strategic partnership. appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

The League of Ireland Premier Division season came to a conclusion yesterday after each team played just 18 games. Despite it’s brevity, the 2020 season was not without it’s drama, incidents and of course, standout performers.

With that said, here are our picks for the best XI of the 2020 League of Ireland Premier Division season:

GOALKEEPER

Edward McGinty – Sligo Rovers

At just 20 years of age, Ed McGinty made quite an impression this season as his side finished 4^th in the league table.

McGinty was voted Sligo’s Young Player of the Year in 2019 and has only improved since. He was one of the few players to play every league game of the season as he firmly established himself as the Bit O’ Red’s number one. He made several stunning saves during a stellar season. McGinty also played a key part in Sligo’s win over Dundalk yesterday as he managed to keep a clean sheet.

He recently earned a call up to Jim Crawford’s Ireland u21 squad ahead of the upcoming games against Iceland and Luxembourg. A credit to his domestic form.

Ed McGinty included in @FAIreland Under-21 squad. https://t.co/IvD4hEvCnt

— Sligo Rovers (@sligorovers) NOVEMBER 6, 2020

RIGHT BACK

Andy Lyons – Bohemians

Normally this position is reserved for Sean Gannon of Dundalk but his lack of playing time in recent weeks and Dundalk’s less than impressive season means he misses out. Instead, Andy Lyons comes in at right back.

The 20-year-old made the right back position his own this season after featuring on a rotation/sporadic basis in season’s past. Impressive going forward but also accomplished defensively, Lyons helped his club to a 2^nd place finish this season. Lyons will only improve in years to come, meaning overseas interest may not be far off for the young right back.

CENTRE BACKS

Joey O’Brien – Shamrock Rovers

The veteran full back turned central defender had a very impressive season as Shamrock Rovers went unbeaten on their way to winning the league title.

Despite having Premier League and international experience, O’Brien is arguably one of the most underrated players in the league. His ball retention as a defender and football IQ is second to none when compared to other defenders in the league.

His experience is vital to this Shamrock Rover’s team. His inclusion in this XI is warranted given his commanding performances this season.

Roberto Lopes – Shamrock Rovers

Joey O’Brien’s defensive partner for Rovers makes up the 2^nd central defensive spot in this XI. The Cape Verdean international produced some immense displays this season on the way to the title. His performance against AC Milan in the Europa League qualifiers showed how capable he is of performing as a high level.

In truth, Shamrock Rover’s other starting central defender, Lee Grace, was unlucky to miss out on the XI. His performances were equally as impressive as the aforementioned centre backs.

LEFT BACK

Tyreke Wilson – Waterford

Wilson had an impressive first season in the League of Ireland. The young left back arrived from Manchester City in January and has made quite the impression since.

Like Andy Lyons, Wilson is a modern day full back in that he can attack and defend with equal efficiency. He scored an incredible free kick earlier in the season as Waterford defeated Bohemians. Waterford will do well to keep hold of him after a fine debut season.

What a fantastic freekick from Orchard boy Tyreke Wilson. Tyreke helped his Waterford FC side to a 2-0 victory over Bohemians as they climb to fourth place in SSE Airtricity League. Keep up the good work Tyreke #COFC#ForTheFuture pic.twitter.com/jAaRz5DVov

— Cherry Orchard FC (@CherryOrchardFC) SEPTEMBER 11, 2020

CENTRE MIDFIELDERS

Aaron McEneff – Shamrock Rovers

The former Spurs trainee has impressed since joining Dundalk from Derry in 2019. He was pivotal in Shamrock Rover’s title challenge as he started the majority of their games.

McEneff is a technical midfielder with a ferocious shot. He displayed his finishing ability on occasion as he ended the campaign with 3 goals to his name.

76: GOAL!

Sligo Rovers 1-2 SHAMROCK ROVERS.

Aaron McEneff sidefoots the ball over Sligo goalkeeper Ed McGinty to give the visitors the lead at the Showgrounds.

It’s LIVE now on eir sport 1! #LOI #SLIvSHA pic.twitter.com/wJCjVAtxeT

— eir Sport (@eirSport) MARCH 7, 2020

Keith Buckley – Bohemians

Keith Buckley featured in all but one of Bohemian’s games all season as they achieved their highest top flight finish in a decade.

The Bohs’ captain produced several impressive performers this season with his combative displays in the centre of the park. Bohemians needed a leader with the retirement of Derek Pender and Buckley more than stepped up to the plate as he lead his young side to an excellent finish.

Gary O’Neill – Shamrock Rovers

It’s an all Rovers/Bohs midfield three as Gary O’Neill takes the final spot.

Like McEneff, O’Neill joined Rovers in 2019 and hasn’t looked back since. The former UCD man scored the winning penalty in last season’s FAI cup final and has only improved since. His performances in the Rovers midfield this season have firmly established him as an important member of the first team squad for years to come.

RIGHT WINGER

Jack Byrne – Shamrock Rovers

Byrne is the first name that springs to mind when you think of a League of Ireland footballer and it’s easy to see why. He joined Shamrock Rovers for the 2019 season and has earned several plaudits since.

The winger/midfielder won Player of the Year for the 2019 season and it looks likely he’ll reclaim his title for 2020. He put in some spectacular performances this season which seen him rack up 9 goals and 4 assists.

Although it would be nice to witness Byrne in the league for another season it doesn’t look likely. Reported interest from Bournemouth, Stoke City and Colorado Rapids could provide a challenge for Rovers to keep him at the club.

The @SSEAirtricityLg at it’s brilliant best.

Jack Byrne #LOI | #GreatestLeagueInTheWorld pic.twitter.com/GzFYaX8wxD

— FAIreland (@FAIreland) FEBRUARY 28, 2020

LEFT WINGER

Danny Grant – Bohemians

Grant is one of the most improved players in the league this season. He had a good 2019 season but stepped up a level this term.

The inverted winger was key to Bohemian’s finishing as high as they did. His 7 goals from the wing were vital in securing a top 2 finish.

Grant is undoubtedly one of the most exciting players in the League of Ireland currently. His breath-taking performances this season have earned him an inclusion in Jim Crawford’s u21 squad. Bohemians could mount a serious title challenge next season if they can hold onto Grant and secure some first team additions.

GOAL | @FinnHarpsFC 0-1 @bfcdublin

24 | Lovely touch inside and Danny Grant makes no mistake

WATCH LIVE | https://t.co/IBZkINEa20#WATCHLOI | 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗖𝗹𝘂𝗯 pic.twitter.com/hBonq5XxNE

— SSE Airtricity League (@SSEAirtricityLg) AUGUST 15, 2020

STRIKER

Pat Hoban – Dundalk

Despite Dundalk’s unimpressive league form, Pat Hoban can hold his head up high with his return this season.

The striker has scored goals with regularity since re-joining the Lilywhites. This season, he kept up his goalscoring form as he chipped in with 10 league goals, making him the league’s top goalscorer.

Dundalk lead!

GOAL | @stpatsfc 0-1 @DundalkFC

23′ | Darragh Leahy got in around the back to get on the end of a cross and Hoban tapped home

WATCH LIVE | https://t.co/IBZkINEa20#WATCHLOI | 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗖𝗹𝘂𝗯 pic.twitter.com/50QDAaK0eB

— SSE Airtricity League (@SSEAirtricityLg) NOVEMBER 1, 2020

The post The best League of Ireland Premier Division XI of the season appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

The 2020 Irish Premier Division came to a conclusion last night. Each team played just 18 league games in a season plagued by Covid-19. The season itself was not it’s drama, though. Last night in particular featured several twists and turns as each club aimed to finish their season on a high note. Some clubs rejoiced while others suffered the consequences of defeat. Here’s how it played out.

Finn Harps vs. Waterford

In one of the most decisive fixtures on the day, Finn Harps took on Waterford. Prior to the game, Finn Harps found themselves in the relegation/promotion play-off spot. Waterford also found themselves with a lot on the line. A win for Waterford would have ensured a European spot for the club. Additionally, only a win would suffice – along with other results – if Harps were to move out of that position.

They did just that as they narrowly defeated Waterford by 1-0. A goal from Adam Foley in the 27^th minute proved to be the deciding goal. Harps were very nearly back where they started in the final minute of extra time, though. Waterford found themselves in the opposition box in the dying seconds with a clear sight of goal. They shot at goal, but Dave Webster was there to stop a certain goal as he cleared off the line.

In truth, Harps deserved to avoid a relegation battle, having won 3 of their last 4 games. After the Harps win, it was down to Derry City and Shelbourne to win or draw their games in order to ease their survival hopes.

Waterford can count themselves unlucky not to have made Europe after their season, but the better team won on the night.

THE GREAT ESCAPE!!! WE’VE DONE IT!

WE ARE STAYING UP #UTH pic.twitter.com/5UJFeQaaVp

— Finn Harps FC (@FinnHarpsFC) NOVEMBER 9, 2020

Derry City vs. Cork City

As mentioned previously, Derry City had to at least draw their game to avoid slipping into the play-off spot. Cork City, on the other hand, had nothing to play for other than pride. The Rebels had been condemned to automatic relegation earlier in the season.

Despite the disparity of fortunes on the line for both clubs, Derry City very nearly succumbed to defeat. Cork took the lead through Beineón O’Brien-Whitmarsh’s goal in the 59^th minute to put pressure on the Northern club. A Finn Harps win and a Shelbourne draw would have meant relegation for Derry if the scoreline remained as it was.

James Akintunde was the hero in the end, though. His strike for Derry in the 76^th minute meant Derry almost certainly avoided the play-off. Derry had the best goal difference by far of the 3 clubs fighting for survival so even if Finn Harps won, Derry would likely retain their position in the Irish Premier Division.

The match finished 1-1 as Derry narrowly avoided a relegation battle.

Derry leave Turner’s Cross with a point to finish the league season and avoiding the play-off.

#RAWA28 pic.twitter.com/noEe8jQAHI

— Derry City FC (@derrycityfc) NOVEMBER 9, 2020

Shelbourne vs. Shamrock Rovers

Similar to the Derry vs. Cork fixture, both teams in this fixture were playing for entirely different outcomes. Shamrock Rovers had already been crowned champions, meaning they effectively had nothing to play for – other than their unbeaten run. Shelbourne, on the other hand, had it all to play for. If results in their own game and other fixtures didn’t go their way, they would be dragged into a relegation play-off.

Shamrock Rovers’ showed no sympathy for the relegation battling Shelbourne as they fielded a strong side. Their quality showed in the end as they ran out 2-0 winners. Their win last night meant they finished the league season unbeaten. This is just the 3^rd time this has happened in League of Ireland history, with Rovers also going unbeaten in the other 2.

𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗜𝗡𝗩𝗜𝗡𝗖𝗜𝗕𝗟𝗘𝗦

Rovers become the first side in 93 years to go an entire season undefeated in the league

We are the only club in League of Ireland history to achieve this

1925 – @ShamrockRovers
1927 – @ShamrockRovers
2020 – @ShamrockRovers pic.twitter.com/xclqYiJYP9

— Shamrock Rovers FC (@ShamrockRovers) NOVEMBER 9, 2020

A wonderful Jack Byrne goal kicked it off in the 22^nd minute as he went on a marauding run up the pitch before smashing into the corner of the net. Jack Byrne has inarguably been the best player in the League of Ireland, despite what the naysayers may claim. His stock has only risen in the past few months and this may be the last time League of Ireland fans get to witness his ability in a Shamrock Rovers shirt in the foreseeable future amid reported overseas interest. The midfielder will also join up with the Republic of Ireland squad ahead of the Wales fixture.

Aaron Greene put the finishing touches on the game as his 57^th minute goal effectively sealed Shelbourne’s relegation play-off spot. Results in the Finn Harps and Derry City games meant Shelbourne were condemned to the play-off spot.

Shelbourne will now face Longford Town on Saturday as they look to stay in the Premier Division for at least another season. It should make for a fascinating contest.

CONFIRMED!@SSEAirtricityLg Promotion/Relegation Final@shelsfc v @LongfordTownFC#Town2020 pic.twitter.com/c3PjsyM3P6

— Longford Town FC (@LongfordTownFC) NOVEMBER 9, 2020

Dundalk vs. Sligo Rovers

After a disappointing domestic season by their standards, Dundalk needed a win to ensure a European spot. Similarly, a Sligo Rovers win would mean a *potential* European spot for the Bit O’ Red.

In a surprise result, Sligo Rovers ran out 2-0 winners. A bizarre goal from Jesse Devers in the 10^th minute opened the scoring as his attempted cross went straight over Gary Roger’s head into the net. Sligo Rovers ensured their victory through a Ronan Coughlan goal in the 95^th minute.

After Waterford’s defeat, Sligo move up to 4^th place. Although currently in a European position (1^st-4^th place), that could change given the winners of the FAI Cup. In order for Sligo to qualify, they must either win the FAI Cup or a team from 1^st to 3^rd must win. Currently, all top 4 teams are still in the cup out of the 6 remaining teams, so it looks good for Sligo as it stands. There is no guarantee of a European spot as for now, though.

Despite Dundalk’s abysmal result, they still finish in 3^rd place after Waterford’s loss to Harps. They will compete in Europa League qualifying next season, but it’s clear that much work is to be done if they intend to claim the league title.

Full-time: Dundalk 0-2 Sligo Rovers

The #bitored come from bottom of the table at the restart to finish fourth after a magnificent victory to round off a brilliant run

The FAI Cup will now decide the outcome of the European place pic.twitter.com/s7tpzjprnI

— Sligo Rovers (@sligorovers) NOVEMBER 9, 2020

Bohemians vs. St Patrick’s Athletic

St Pat’s could have potentially claimed a play-off spot with a win against Bohemians, but even if they did, they would have to rely on other results. Bohs’ on the other hand had nothing to play for as their 2^nd place position was secured earlier in the season.

Bohemian’s have had an incredible season; particularly given the youthfulness of the squads they’ve chosen over the season. They were the youngest team in the Irish Premier Division and 21^st youngest team in Europe’s top flight divisions as they finished the season. They continued to trust in youth last night as they played yet another young team. Brighton bound 16-year-old Evan Ferguson was the focus of attention as he started his first league match of the season.

The teenager nearly made an impression early into the game as a Danny Grant cross found him before he bundled the ball into the net. In a controversial decision, though, the goal was ruled out for handball.

St Pat’s were the first to score an official goal as Jordan Gibson broke the deadlock in the 37^th minute. That didn’t last for long, though. Danny Grant scored the equaliser just before half time for Bohemians. The left winger has been in terrific form this season which has warranted his inclusion in the latest Ireland u21s squad.

Andre Wright, another in form man, secured the win for Bohemians with his penalty in the 63^rd minute. The match finished 2-1 to Bohemians.

Danny Dre
⠀
Another goal added to each of their season tallies last night!
⠀
: @sportsfile pic.twitter.com/R57WT7xQmV

— Bohemian FC (@bfcdublin) November 10, 2020

Here’s how the final league table looks:

FINAL TABLE | Premier Division

Wow. What a night. @FinnHarpsFC survive@sligorovers in potential European spot @ShamrockRovers unbeaten Champions @shelsfc head to the promotion/relegation play-off#LOI | #GreatestLeagueInTheWorld pic.twitter.com/sw9yJdC6vF

— SSE Airtricity League (@SSEAirtricityLg) NOVEMBER 9, 2020

The post Drama filled Irish Premier Division final day recap appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

The season was brought to a halt in March as restrictions across the country heightened. Fast forward to August and football was back in Ireland, this time without the fans. A decision was made to decrease the number of games by half. So here we are in November about to embark on the final week of the season. The decrease in fixtures has led to an increase in excitement for the neutrals.

Seven out of ten team have something to play for as they head towards the finish line. To put this into context, there is a five point gap between fourth and eighth place. As the season came to a climax last year, this gap was five times bigger, at twenty points.

So what’s at stake for each team?

Shamrock Rovers crowned Champions

Shamrock Rovers will lift the 2020 SSE Airtricity League title on Wednesday evening after their penultimate league game against St. Patrick’s Athletic. Rovers have been a dominant force this season, remaining unbeaten with impressive wins over Dundalk, Sligo Rovers and their arch rivals Bohemians since the league restarted. It has been a long time coming for the Hoops who have not lifted a league title since 2011.

Eighteen times LOI Champions pic.twitter.com/KlHl5B2keI

— Shamrock Rovers FC (@ShamrockRovers) October 27, 2020

Republic of Ireland international Jack Byrne has been pivotal in their success, with eight goals to his name this season. It will be manager Stephen Bradley’s priority to keep the midfielder in Tallaght for next season, with reports that Rovers have already made Byrne a ‘fantastic’ contract offer. That being said, after another impressive season, interest from abroad seems inevitable.

Ahead of Wednesday’s clash against St. Pat’s, Shamrock Rovers have appealed for fans not to gather outside Tallaght Stadium in accordance with current COVID-19 restrictions.

Relegation Battle

At the other end of the table, Cork City have been relegated to the First Division. The 2017 Champions have endured a fall from grace in recent seasons, and head into their final game seven points adrift at the bottom of the league.

Finn Harps’ survival hopes were dented by Shamrock Rovers as they lost 2-0 on Sunday. The Donegal side need a win against fourth placed Waterford on Sunday evening to give themselves any chance of staying up. They also need to rely on results elsewhere, namely Shelbourne and Derry City.

Harps stay in the promotion/relegation spot

FT | @FinnHarpsFC 0-2 @ShamrockRovers

Rovers win in difficult conditions as Harps head for dramatic final day of the season in bid to avoid the drop

Report | https://t.co/GssP53kvRU#LOI | #GreatestLeagueInTheWorld pic.twitter.com/yeoPhRxI0U

— SSE Airtricity League (@SSEAirtricityLg) November 1, 2020

Derry City were looking comfortable after a convincing win against Shelbourne at the end of October took them up to fifth in the league. However since then things haven’t gone as planned. Following an outbreak of COVID-19 cases within their squad, the club entered a 14-day isolation period and therefore failed to play their scheduled clash against Shamrock Rovers. A forfeit and subsequent 3-0 loss could be on the cards for Derry, who will likely appeal any potential decision.

Similar to Derry, Shelbourne also find themselves at the wrong end of the table following a run of only three wins from thirteen matches since the restart. Shels take on Rovers on the final day. Despite the fact the league has been won, Rovers still have the added incentive of an unbeaten campaign to play for. Both Shels and Derry sit on 19 points, two points ahead of Finn Harps.

The final occupiers of ninth spot will face either Galway United or Longford Town in the relegation/promotion play-off.

European Qualification

A bitter-sweet moment for Bohemians who will finish the season in second place, their highest league position since 2010. Dundalk’s draw with St. Pat’s on Sunday wasn’t enough to claim their spot for European football next season. They need a point against Sligo Rovers on Sunday to secure third place.

That leaves Waterford, Sligo Rovers and St. Pat’s in a final battle for the potential last European spot. Waterford travel to Finn Harps. With a lot at stake for both team, it’s set to be an exciting game. After heartbreakingly missing out on Europa League football in 2019 due to a UEFA technicality, Waterford will be hoping for an upturn in their fortunes this time round.

Waterford gave their own European qualification hopes a big boost as they got the better of Dundalk

Full highlights below #rtesoccer #watchloi pic.twitter.com/hc0vWB1NUv

— Soccer Republic (@SoccRepublic) October 26, 2020

Although St. Pat’s are four points behind Waterford, they have the added advantage of an extra game in hand. That being said it won’t be easy for the Dublin side as they face champions Rovers before playing runners up Bohs on the final day. Two losses and they might be heading for a relegation play-off if other scores don’t go their way. A prime example of how congested the table is.

Likewise, Sligo Rovers also finish with a tricky trip to Oriel Park to take on Dundalk. Now there’s the added caveat of the FAI Cup. With Shamrock Rovers, Bohs, and Dundalk still in the competition, they will form an orderly queue as strong favourites to lift the cup. However, if Sligo Rovers (albeit they get a bye into the quarter finals after Derry City failed to play the game), Finn Harps or Athlone Town manage to cause an upset, then fourth spot becomes irrelevant. The FAI Cup winners head for Europe.

If that was too much to digest, you can find the full league table ahead of this weeks’ fixtures here. It is set to be a thrilling end to an abnormal season.

The post SSE Airtricity Premier Division Final Week – What’s at Stake? appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

With just about 50 supporters in attendance, Sligo had the ball in the back of the net after just 30 seconds. The goal coming courtesy of Jesse Devers. The goal came after Ronan Coughlan linked up with Ryan De Vries on the left before he found Devers who then headed to the net past Colin McCabe from the edge of the small box. The Bit O’Red could have a further two goals on 6 minutes and 9 minutes. Devers going close with a flashing effort across the goal, while McCabe then had to scramble across his goal to stop another Devers shot going in. Shelbourne should have had a goal on 11 minutes. Ciaran Kilduff got onto the end of a Dale Rooney ball from the left, however he was unable to stab the ball home from close range.

It takes Jesse Devers just 30 seconds to give @sligorovers the lead against @shelsfc at The Showgrounds

Subscribe to https://t.co/GCuxfKa9au to watch over 55 games #RTESoccer pic.twitter.com/mi4W9KxfOy

— Soccer Republic (@SoccRepublic) August 8, 2020

Sligo looked the dominant side of the half and they continued to rank up the pressure. Devers again going close on two occasions, before Coughlan’s headed effort went narrowly over the bar with half time approaching. Shelbourne should have had a goal within a minute of the restart. Jaze Kabia though blazed his effort over when it looked easier to score past Ed McGinty. Sligo capitalised on that miss and they went down the other end five minutes to double their advantage. Coughlan this time directing Regan Donelon’s corner into the path of Cawley who powered his shot past McCabe. The game was getting a bit scrappy now but Shels managed to reply in the 4th minute of additional time of the 6 added on by referee Rob Hennessy. Deegan was the goalscorer finishing past McGinty who couldn’t get a strong fist to stop the well struck volley.

Sligo Rovers: Ed McGinty; Darragh Noone, Kyle McFadden, Danny Kane, Regan Donelon; Niall Morahan, David Cawley, Will Seymore (John Russell 59); Jesse Devers, Ryan De Vries (Alex Cooper 85); Ronan Coughlan.

Shelbourne: Colin McCabe; Aidan Friel (Oscar Brennan 80), Daniel Byrne, Luke Byrne (Daniel O’Reilly 60), Alex O’Hanlon; Gary Deegan, Sean Quinn (Alex Cetiner 80); Dale Rooney, Ryan Brennan (Georgie Poynton 53), Jaze Kabia (Aaron Dobbs 53); Ciaran Kilduff.

The post Sligo Rovers make it two wins a row with win over Shelbourne appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

The FAI said in a statement, “The player did not train and Waterford FC suspended the training session and the player will now undergo a Covid-19 test,”. They said as a result of a suspected case of Covid 19 the SSE Airtricity League between the two teams has been postponed. The FAI said,” “As a result of this suspected case, the SSE Airtricity League has postponed Tuesday night’s game pending the result of the player’s test”.

The player did not play in Waterford’s last game against Shelbourne, however he did travel with match day squad to the game. The FAI that the FAI medical team “will now review all aspects of this case before making any further decisions.”

Waterford also issued a statement confirming the news. It said, “At 8:45am this morning (Monday, 3 August), a player from our senior team reported to the club doctor with flu-like symptoms and has been sent for testing immediately”. The statement said the results are pending and until they receive these results club training and staff meetings at the club have been stopped. It continued, “Our Covid-19 management team will work in conjunction with the FAI and HSE to ensure that every precaution possible is taken”.

Waterford also confirmed they won’t be travelling to Sligo for the game. In which the statement said, “This may not be a confirmed case and we do not wish to cause any unwanted concern, however, the safety of the players, staff and public are of the utmost importance and for that reason, we will not be traveling to Sligo for our Tuesday fixture”.

The club that they will continue to keep people updated through their social media channels. Waterford restarted the Premier Division with a 1-0 wi over Shelbourne on Saturday last.

The post Sligo and Waterford postponed due to Covid 19 appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Derry City v Sligo Rovers, Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium, Friday, 5.45pm

Both of these sides are closer to the bottom of the table rather than the top. Derry are currently in 7th place with 4 points from 7 games, while Sligo Rovers are bottom in 10th having not won a game yet. There have been some changes in Derry with players like Tim Nilsen and Jamie McDonagh leaving for pastures new. Derry returned to training four weeks earlier than Sligo so that is bound to help.

Derry have players such as Jake Dunwoody, Joe Thomson, Adam Hammill, James Akintunde and Ibrahim Meite who have joined the squad. Meanwhile, Darren Cole has since returned from a cruciate knee ligament injury. Looking at Sligo Rovers, Ronan Murray and Lewis Banks are back and available for selection. John Dunleavy is also reported to match fit. Junior Ogedi Uzokwe has received work permit and is also available. He will not be allowed to take part in Friday’s game due to quarantine.

Manager Thoughts

Declan Devine manager of Derry City speaking to the clubs website said, “This league is competitive enough as it is with just ten teams, but everybody will look to be on the front foot straight away as there won’t be much time to make up any lost ground”. 

Liam Buckley manager of Sligo Rovers speaking to the clubs website said “When the players returned to training they were in good condition and they’ve worked very hard over the last few weeks. “It hasn’t been ideal in having the short period of training and missing lads who have gone through quarantine. There’s an imbalance in the league in that. But this is the situation and we have to make the best of what we have.

Betting

Derry are clear favourites to win this game at 8/11. Sligo are 7/2 to get their first win. For me a 2-1 win for Derry at 6/1 is the selection.

The post Derry City v Sligo Rovers: Team News and Betting appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.