Big blow for Derry City as Patrick McClean ruled out of North West derby clash with Finn Harps this evening
WHILST Kenny Shiels has surprised many in his first season at Brandywell, the failure to defeat Finn Harps in the two games to date has been a surprise to many.
Shiels’ first game in charge was a visit to Ballybofey, but City were sent back down the road empty handed after a 2-0 defeat.
The Candystripes did bounce back, going on a run which saw them unbeaten for the next two months.
At the return fixture in the Brandywell Sean Houston rescued a point for Harps after Patterson looked to have sealed it for the home side.
City will be looking to get back to winning ways tonighT at Ballybofey (kick off 8 pm) after back to back draws with Sligo and St Patrick’s Athletic, whereas Harps are hoping to arrest the slide which has seen them lose their last three matches in a row.
City also have an eye on Shamrock Rovers in fourth, with the Hoops three points behind and with two games in hand.
The manager wasn’t making any predictions about this evenings clash, telling the BBC “I’m always loathe to predict the outcome of derby matches as there are so many twists of fate involved.
“So many things can go against you, including the rub of the green with decisions.”
City have major injury concerns.
At the back James McClean’s brother Patrick is ruled out.
In addition Aaron Barry, Dean Jarvis, Ryan McBride and Conor McDermott are all injury doubts for the manager.
All four will undergo late fitness tests.
