Derry City’s Jamie McDonagh insists that they can lay down a claim for a European spot for next season with a victory over a resurgent Bohemians side on Monday night.
The Candystripes have only been beaten at home by two of the three sides in front of them at home so far this campaign, with the 22-year-old looking to put things right for the fans ahead of a crucial game on Foyleside.
Speaking ahead of Derry’s crunch game with Keith Long’s Bohemians, McDonagh said: “Regardless of how well Bohemians are doing at the minute, we will not fear them in any way.
“We will respect them and we know how well they have done this season, in the way that they play, but we expect ourselves to win.
“That is the mentality inside that dressing room, to win, regardless if it is home or away, but especially at home.”
City have won five out of seven home matches this season, the two defeats coming against Shamrock Rovers and Dundalk, and McDonagh insists the Brandywell must become a stronghold again if they are to have success.
“We don’t fear any team that come here to the Brandywell,” McDonagh said.
“This is our home and we want to make it a fortress and regardless of the team, we are not afraid of anyone that comes here.
“We will always go out and try and get the three points, we will never sit off teams or go out for a draw, we always want the three points,” he added.
The winger admitted he is enjoying an attacking role under new boss Declan Devine after a short period of defensive duties under former handler Kenny Shiels – adding a goal and an assist to his name against Cork City last Friday.
“Listen, I can play both roles. Last year I played right-back and I think I did well in that position.
“This year I am a bit higher up the pitch and I am expected to provide assists and goals and I think I have done that so far in the games I have played.
“As a winger, the next best thing to scoring a goal is getting an assist and I have managed to get four already this season.
“I managed to get a goal and an assist against Cork (City) and with my son in the crowd, I just wanted to make him proud.
“So, wherever the manager decides to play me, I am just happy to be on the pitch.”
