Derry City backed to win League of Ireland title if race goes to the final day

Derry City have fate in their own hands as the title race reaches its conclusion.

Alan Reynolds, the Bohs boss, has backed Derry to win the League IF fate remains in their hands on the final day of the season.

The most exciting title race in years is reaching its conclusion with Shels in first, two points clear of defending champions, Shamrock Rovers, and three ahead of Derry.

The difference is the Candystripes have a game in hand on their two rivals and also play Shels at home on the final day.

And if they still in the hunt by then, Reynolds is backing his former club to seal the deal and secure their first championship since 1997.

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The Bohs boss said: “All three clubs will justifiably believe they can do it and I can make a strong case for each of them. I certainly think Shels, Rovers and Derry will all finish strongly and get wins in their run in.

“But if Derry need something here in the Brandywell on the final day, knowing that a win or a draw will get them the title, then they will be hard stopped.”

Last night Bohs did stop them in their tracks, securing a 1-1 draw.

But City boss Ruaidhri Higgins was not panicking afterwards.

Higgins said: “The boys left everything out there on the field.

“Their effort levels were amazing; they created a lot of chances and on another day, a couple of those would have gone in.

“So, there is no reason to be downbeat. We started the game well; Bohs had a strong second quarter and these things are always going to happen in the League of Ireland, where a team will have its period of dominance.

“But we had plenty of chances and lots of possession in the second half. We played well. We dust ourselves down now and move on to Monday. Sligo have had an excellent season and will pose a tough test.”

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