Injuries overshadow a positive
SSE League of Ireland Men’s Premier Division Derry City
Sligo Rovers 1 1 dominated possession but Rovers were comfortable in dealing with the threat. The home side’s one clear opening was one of a number of controversial moments in this clash as Derry were denied a potential opening goal after 10 minutes.
A poor pass from Reece Hutchinson forced centre-back John Mahon into a rash tackle. Referee Adriano Reale appeared to play advantage before seemingly changing his mind as Jamie McGonigle lined up a shot. The striker found the back of the net, but Luke McNicholas did not attempt to save it knowing that play was halted.
Rovers breathed a collective sigh of relief and continued to repel the Derry attack.
Their patience was rewarded after 25 minutes when they scored against the run of play.
An excellent team move saw Luke McNicholas pick out Johan Brannefalk who quickly fed the ball to Fabrice Hartmann. His brilliant close control allowed him to twist and turn away from four Derry players before passing to Greg Bolger.
Bolger performed the role of midfield general to perfection which allowed Fabrice Hartmann and Will Fitzgerald to shine in their attacking duties.
The final minutes of the half were overshadowed by injury - first Johan Brannefalk who appeared to get his foot caught in the artificial surface causing an agonising twist to his leg which required him to leave via a stretcher.
His replacement, Karl O’Sullivan, suffered a twisted ankle mid-tackle which subsequently forced him off at half-time.
The second-half saw Rovers play with two further deputies at rightback, Niall Morahan followed by Will Fitzgerald, but it should be noted both were excellent in the role when called upon.
Rovers didn’t stray from their structured set-up but it was evident Derry were slowly but surely upping their game with players such as Sadou Diallo and Ryan Graydon being increasingly influential.
Rovers conceded a high number of corners and they eventually paid the