Will Fitzgerald scored the game’s only goal as Sligo Rovers’ men’s senior side got their pre-season campaign underway with a win over Derry City in County Tyrone on Friday.

Initially due to take place at City’s Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium, this friendly was moved to Stangmore Park, home of Dungannon Swifts due to effects of the recent cold spell on Derry’s pitch. 

Four new players, Jeannot Esua, Carl McHugh, Archie Meekison and Alex Nolan took part in the game. While first-team regulars Sam Sargeant, Ryan O’Kane, Jad Hakiki, Owen Elding and Fitzgerald all featured for John Russell’s side. 

A trialist with League of Ireland experience played the first 45. 

Rovers created plenty of chances throughout this workout and the game’s only goal arrived eleven minutes into the second period, when skipper Fitzgerald, one of the league’s standouts in 2025, chipped in with his first goal of the year. 

The second half saw the introduction of the likes of Sean Stewart, Patrick McClean and Cian Kavanagh as Russell looked to give minutes to as many players as possible. 

Up against one of the favourites for this year’s Premier Division crown, Rovers kept their ‘hosts’ scoreless again in the second half. Preparations for 2026 getting underway in ideal fashion.

Rovers’ next run-out is this Tuesday when we visit Finn Park to take on Harps. Kick-off 7.30pm.  

First half XI: Sam Sargeant, Jeannot Esua, Gareth McElroy, Conor Reynolds, Kyle McDonagh, Daire Patton, Carl McHugh, Archie Meekison, Alex Nolan, Ryan O’Kane, Trailist.

Second half XI: Sam Sargeant, Sean Stewart, David Jonathan, Patrick McClean, Conor Reynolds, Daire Patton, Jad Hakiki, Will Fitzgerald, Owen Elding, Guilherme Priosti, Cian Kavanagh.