SSE Airtricity League Premier Division: Derry City v Bohemians (tonight, 7.45pm)
ASSISTANT manager Alan Reynolds has insisted the Derry City's free-scoring squad have remained grounded and are gearing up for a tough test against Bohemians tonight.
Ruaidhri Higgins's number two has been delighted by the Candystripes currently form, which has seen them score 11 goals in their last two games and moved them back to three points clear of champions Shamrock Rovers, but it was their impressive 4-0 win at fellow title challengers St Patrick's Athletic last Friday night that has everyone talking. However, Reynolds feels the squad will remain grounded.
"We had a great night at Inchicore last week and the players are in good spirits, they were back in on Sunday and Monday and we have had a good week," he insisted.
"Look, obviously we have to stay on top of them but I think they're a sensible group who know that there's nothing given out at this stage of the season and we want to keep driving and improving."
The former Waterford boss, while delighted with their form, isn't taking anything for granted and feels the Gypsies will be up to avenge last month's defeat.
The Brandywell men claimed the three points thanks to second half headers from Ronan Boyce and James Akintunde, with the Londoner's goal coming deep into stoppage time in April's action packed affair at Dalymount Park.
"We are playing well and the spirit in the game is super so we look forward to Bohs coming, but it'll be a tough test," admitted Reynolds.
"I suppose because it was the last kick of the game we were lucky to beat them down in Dalymount and they had a good win against UCD last week, but I expect it to be an exciting one, the place should be rocking and we'll be well prepared for it."
City go into this evening's game with virtually a fully fit squad with only Michael Duffy and Ciaron Harkin still on the treatment table with their long-term injuries.
“It’s all the same as it has been over the last few games, we have a few bumps and bruises, but I think when confidence is high and you are winning games, everyone is okay, so bar the couple of lads - Mickey [Duffy] and Ciaron [Harkin] - the rest are okay,” added Reynolds
Elsewhere tonight St Pat's will be looking to bounce back from last week's mauling in front of their own fans when they travel to Drogheda United and boss Tim Clancy comes up against his former club at Head in the Game Park.
Damien Duff's Shelbourne, who suffered a narrow 1-0 loss at Finn Harps last Friday evening, will be hoping they can finally get their first league success at Tolka Park when they entertain Sligo Rovers and bottom side UCD come up against third placed Dundalk.
In the First Division, leaders Cork City make the trip to bottom side Athlone Town; managerless Waterford will fancy their chances at Bray Wanderers and in-form Galway United are the visitors to Cobh Ramblers, while tomorrow night Longford Town have home advantage over Wexford.
