BOHEMIANS v SHAMROCK ROVERS (Dalymount Park, Monday March 18th, 2pm)
Following a disappointing second half reversal against Cork City on Friday, Bohemians will need no motivation to bounce back as they take on fierce rivals Shamrock Rovers in a Bank Holiday Blockbuster in Dalymount Park on Monday, writes KEVIN FAGAN.
All St Patrick’s Day goodwill will go out the window as another chapter is written in the Airtricity League’s most intense rivalry.
Despite the defeat, Bohs boss Aaron Callaghan was pleased with his side’s performance on the banks of the River Lee, where Owen Heary’s header just before the interval was cancelled out by two second-half strikes.
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“I thought it was a good performance overall, obviously we didn’t get the result we wanted. The intensity they came out with in the second half we couldn’t cope with it.
“We conceded two sloppy goals, I think their second one was a bit lucky with someone miscontrolling it. But we got back into the game in the last 15 to 20 minutes, so I was delighted with the performance individually and collectively.”
Coming off back-to-back wins in games against Shamrock Rovers last season, Callaghan knows that there is more than just three points on offer against the Hoops.
He said: “It’s not just a game – it’s a big Dublin Derby against our biggest rivals. Last year we were set up quite well for those games but we definitely need to perform at our best to get a result.
“I think last year is history to be honest. They’ve strengthened, they have a new manager and a new set of players. They’ve started the season well so it’s a good test for us – but it’s one we’re looking forward to.”
The Gypsies boss knows that he won’t need to fire his players up for this one. Callaghan said: “They know the importance of the game for themselves first of all, but also for the fans. They need to make sure they put in a performance individually, and then collectively I think we’ll be good.”
Callaghan praised the effect of a raucous Jodi Stand support in the 4-0 win against Rovers last season. He expects a big crowd again this time around, and the Bank Holiday kick-off should make for a fantastic atmosphere.
He added: “I think there’s going to be a really good crowd. The fact we moved it forward and that they’ve started well, I think there could be four or five thousand at it, and I know our fans will come out in force.”
Bohs will be without midfielder Dave Mulcahy, who is still struggling with an ankle injury, while centre-back Stephen Paisley and midfielder/forward Kevin Devaney are doubts through illness. Bar that trio, Callaghan expects his squad to be at full strength for the big game.