PREVIEW: BOHEMIANS v SLIGO ROVERS (Good Friday, Dalymount Park, 7.05pm)
(Please note early kick-off time)
Bohemians welcome league champions Sligo Rovers determined to recover the confidence they felt after their last game 11 days ago.
Last weekend’s late calling-off of the St Patrick’s Athletic game may have cost his team “a bit of momentum”, according to manager Aaron Callaghan.
“The lads put in a good performance against Shamrock Rovers and a good result against Pats would have moved us right up the table,” Callaghan said.
“It’s disappointing when you’re preparing for a game and it’s called off at the last minute, but we can’t control things like that.”
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Bohemians will show the table-toppers the respect they deserve but Callaghan takes confidence from two close games against Sligo last season, including a scoreless draw at Dalymount.
“Sligo have had a great run in the league and they have had a good Setanta Cup so far but we’re looking for a result from Friday’s game.
“The level of consistency Sligo have maintained is very good. They are able to compete for the best players and they have bought well. They took Evan [McMillan] from us, a really good player, and I was surprised that others didn’t get him.”
For Bohemians, Chris Lyons remains out with an ankle injury from the Shamrock Rovers game that may be more serious than first thought. Shane Fitzgerald has returned to training after an ankle injury.
With newly-signed Stephen Paisley now fully fit, Callaghan has to consider what role he may have, given that the defence with Owen Heary in the centre has proven effective.
But the availability of the experienced Paisley and of Dave Mulcahy is a fillip as Bohemians face Shelbourne next Monday. Callaghan may be calling on more of his squad over the next few days.
