FINN Harps will look to close the gap on St Patrick’s Athletic tonight as Ollie Horgan’s men host the Saints in Ballybofey (7.45pm).
Harps will be without the suspended Leo Donnellan, who was sent off in Saturday’s fine 2-0 win away to Bohemians.
That victory ensured that Harps have avoided the automatic relegation sport. Now, Horgan’s side are aiming to reel in some of those teams – including Pat’s – in the immediate vicinity with three games remaining.
Karl O’Sullivan, who limped out of the game at Dalymount Park, is a doubt, while Gareth Harkin, who had an excellent game at the weekend, is also rated on the doubtful list.
However, midfielder Mark Coyle is back from suspension.
It’s one win apiece this season so far, with a double by Donegal native Georgie Kelly giving Pat’s a 2-0 win in the League while an early Ryan Connolly goal gave Harps victory in the FAI Cup meeting.
Horgan said: “They’re a serious side and have plenty of quality in lads like Chris Forrester, Robbie Benson and Georgie Kelly to name just a few. They are still in contention for a European place so they’ll come here looking for three points to get them up the table.”
Pat’s manager Stephen O’Donnell says he is coming to the north west with a full-strength squad as they return to action following a Covid-19 related period of inaction for the last three weeks.
O’Donnell said: “Ballybofey is always a tough place to go. I saw Finn Harps on Saturday against Bohemians in Dalymount Park and they played very well and Harps got a deserved 2-0 win.
“They will be really energised by that and full of confidence. No matter what the situation is, Finn Park is always a really difficult place to play. We’re under no illusions what the test is going to be. We’re going up there full of confidence and full of hope. We’ve a full squad available and everyone is looking forward to it.”
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