Shamrock Rovers look to close in on Derry City
Shamrock Rovers will be looking to get back level at the top of the table when they take on Galway United at Terryland Park tonight (kick-off 6.30pm).
The Hoops had a terrific result in the Europa League on Thursday night drawing 1-1 with Partizan, however, manager Michael O'Neill will make sure his side are focused on domestic matters ahead of Thursday's second leg in Belgrade.
At the same time, O'Neill is likely to use the strong squad he has at his disposal and will surely make several changes to the side that started in Tallaght on Thursday night.
The Hoops boss may use the trip to Galway to give new keeper Richard Brush his first competitive start for Rovers.
Ken Oman remains out of the Hoops squad with a knee injury, while there are serious doubts about Conor McCormack (also knee), who picked up a knock on Thursday night in the Europa game.
Defender Pat Flynn is suspended having reached four yellow cards.
Hoops boss, Michael O’Neill said: “Our form in the league has been very good lately. We’ve won three games on the bounce, scoring eight goals and playing some very good football. And we’ll be looking to continue that and get the win and another three points.
“If we get the win we will have taken 19 points from this quarter, and that’s the position we want to be in come Sunday night. We have a chance to go clear at the top, still with a game in hand, and we will be looking to take that chance.”
Laurence Gaughan is ruled out for Galway as he is serving a suspension, while Johnny Keane and Sean Kelly remain unavailable for selection through injury.
Ronan Caldwell is unavailable due to work commitments, although, Bobby Ryan is fit and should be included in the starting 11.
Galway boss Sean Connor said: "To be honest with you, I'm really looking forward to it. It's always nice to play the big teams, it's good for the players and it's good for the club.
"Hopefully we can take advantage of them playing the big game on Thursday."
