Team news for Longford game

Sligo Rovers face Longford Town in the Irish Daily Mail FAI Cup on Saturday night in The Showgrounds.

Rovers were unfortunate to lose to Derry on Monday in the EA Sports Cup semi-final after previously recording a 2-1 win over City days earlier.

In team news, Gary Boylan is the only absentee with a long-term cruciate ligament injury.

Gerard Lyttle said: “I don’t think there was that much more in terms of performance needed last Monday – we just couldn’t get that goal and we created lots of chances.

“Derry scored a goal that came from nothing really – a stunning strike – and the manner we responded was really pleasing. Sometimes it just won’t go in for you. That happens in football. I was really pleased with the performance of Mikey Drennan in the game and Raff Cretaro came on and was a livewire and took us great positions. The lads are experienced enough to know it can happen where the goal doesn’t arrive. There are goals in our team as we’ve seen recently in some of the wins. I think the better team missed out on the final last Monday but you have to accept the outcome and use it to drive you on.

“Longford turned us over last year and we know they are a good side. Neale has them playing a good brand of football, out from the back, and they’re up there challenging for the play-off spots.

“We know the dangers and I don’t think complacency will be an issue for us. I do feel we’re stronger this year and that’s no disrespect to any players here before. However, it’s up to us to go out and put the performance in. I think if we keep playing like we have been that we can win games and that’s the job for the lads on Saturday.”

Kick-off is 7:45pm, tickets available at turnstiles.