Sligo Rovers host Bohemians on Saturday night at The Showgrounds at 7.45pm.

Before Friday’s SSE Airtricity Men’s Premier Division fixtures, the Gypsies are in first place in the table and it would need Derry City to defeat Shelbourne in Tolka Park in order for them to come off top spot going into the game.

The Bit O’ Red are in fourth spot which could change depending on results for Shelbourne and Drogheda United, who face Cork City away from home.

Rovers come into the game after the International break and welcome back Max Mata, Nando Pijnaker, Bogdan Vastsuk and Stefan Radosavljevic following their International call-ups and all four players have trained this week and will be involved at the weekend.

Bohemians defeated UCD last time out at Dalymount Park on St. Patrick’s Day, coming from behind to win 2-1.

Manager John Russell is excited to be back in front of another packed Showgrounds crowd:

‘’Our home support has been brilliant so far this season. I feel there is a real connection developing between the supporters and this team.

‘’We’re expecting another big turn out on Saturday night. You can’t underestimate the role the supporters play in making The Showgrounds a fortress this season’’.

We will be ready. The players are eager to get the season going again after the international break. It’s a home game for us and we’re expecting a top performance.

Tickets for the game are selling fast and supporters are advised that they should buy online in advance. Ticket link: https://srfcdirect.com/match-tickets/

Tickets for Bohemians fans are completely sold-out and no away supporters will gain entry on the night.

Russell expects a tough game against the Dubliners:

‘’Bohemians have had a good start to the season. They come into this game full of confidence so, we know we are facing a tough opponent’’.

In team news, Rovers are without five injured players who remain out long-term. Garry Buckley, Mark Byrne and Gary Boylan are all recovering from ACL injuries and Johan Brannefalk and Karl O’ Sullivan are sidelined with Ankle Ligament injuries. Youth player Sean McAteer also misses out with a leg injury.

Gates open at 6.30pm on Saturday night and this is a Category One fixture with prices as follows:

Adult €20

OAP/Students/Over 12’s: €12

Under 12’s: €5