Airtricity League: Shiels calls on fans to turn out for City’s ‘six-pointer’ clash with Rovers

Derry City host Shamrock Rovers tonight in a crucial Airtricity Premier Division clash in the race for an eagerly sought-after European qualifying spot

The Brandywell game (kick-off 7.45pm) is one the home side can ill-afford to lose.

Last Friday’s defeat to Dundalk and Rovers' 4-2 win over Galway, resulted in the Dubliners leapfrogging the Candy Stripes to take command of the coveted third spot.

A win tonight for The Hoops would see them move four points clear of Derry, with only four games remaining. City boss Kenny Shiels (pictured) has called on home fans to turn out in their numbers the "six-pointer" in the battle for Europe.

The Candy Stripes have played only twice at home in the last nine games and the City boss admits that the Brandywell crowd could make all the difference on the night.

“It’s been a long time since we’ve played at the Brandywell and the fans can really make a difference and I would ask them to come out and support us,” he added.

“They have been fantastic all season and a packed Brandywell, as we have seen in games against Cork City and Galway United, can really lift the team.”

He concluded: “ I would ask as many fans as possible to get to the game and let their voices be heard and hopefully they can roar us on to a good result.”