Rory Patterson’s goal got Derry City back into the game against Dundalk at Oriel Park
ALL roads lead to the Brandywell tonight as Derry City host Dundalk.
A big crowd is expected as the Candy Stripes hope to make it a third FAI Cup final in five years.
That’s the prize that awaits Derry City if they can overcome Dundalk in this evening’s semi-final replay (kick off 7.45 pm).
The Candy Stripes came from two goals down at half time to salvage a draw at Oriel Park on Sunday, with goals from Rory Patterson and Ronan Curtis shocking Dundalk.
City boss Kenny Shiels was delighted with his team’s efforts on Sunday and insists his team deserve more credit.
“This is eleven games now, and eight of them have been away, and we have lost one once,” he said.
“The form has been fantastic, and we have the capacity to get through this.
“Psychologically, coming back from two goals might labour with Dundalk a bit because they will be thinking they had it in the can.
“They will be asking ‘Why didn’t we close it out?
“But I’m really thrilled. The determination and the character of the players at half time was key.
“We spoke about it at half time and we weren’t happy with the goals we gave away.
“We broke the second half into two and I told the players to be patient because we are as good as them, and the goals came.”
The goals came on 65 mins from Patterson and substitute Curtis on 86 mins.
Derry City will make a welcome return to the Brandywell having played four successive away games in the FAI Cup this season following trips to Drogheda United, Bohemians, Wexford Youths and Dundalk.
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