Sligo Rovers v Dundalk: Preview

Sligo Rovers v Dundalk FC Saturday, 17 October The Showgrounds Kick-off: 7.45pm

Dundalk FC return to action on Saturday night when they travel to The Showgrounds to face Sligo Rovers in their penultimate away fixture of the season.

After a two-week break from league action, the Lilywhites will be hoping to bounce back from a frustrating defeat to Bohemians and finish the campaign on a positive note.

Dundalk manager Ciarán Kilduff expects a difficult challenge against a Sligo side looking for a response of their own.

"We've had two weeks to reflect on what was a frustrating night against Bohs, but we want to react and finish the season as strongly as we can," he said.

"There's no such thing as an easy game at this level, so we'll have to do everything right."

The break has given Dundalk an opportunity to freshen up the squad, with a number of players continuing their recovery from injury.

"We do have some bodies back. Tyreke Wilson could be available again, although it may only be in a limited capacity. Everyone else seems to be in a good place and ready to go.

"We've had two good weeks on the training ground and freshened up some bodies, so we're hoping to put in a good performance."

Kilduff was in attendance for Sligo's recent meeting with Shelbourne and believes there were plenty of encouraging signs from the Bit O' Red despite the eventual result.

"I was impressed with Sligo, particularly in the first half against Shelbourne. They were level at half-time and certainly weren't flattered by that.

"Shelbourne kicked on in the second half, but there was a lot there for Sligo to take positives from."

While both clubs find themselves in difficult circumstances, Kilduff expects a hard-fought contest between two teams eager to finish the season strongly.

"It's a difficult time for them as a club, but we've been there ourselves. They'll be looking for a reaction in front of their own supporters on Saturday night.

"We're ready for what should be a big game for both teams. Regardless of league positions, both sides will want to finish the season in a positive way and that's exactly what we're looking to do."