Sligo Rovers begin a busy weekend of Premier Division football at the Showgrounds this Friday night, taking on Dundalk at 7.45pm. 

The Lilywhites’ visit will be followed up on Monday by a much anticipated, re-arranged Connacht derby with Galway United as Rovers look to recover from recent defeats in Dublin to both Pat’s and Shamrock Rovers. 

Rovers will be without long term sidelined duo John Mahon and Nando Pijnaker. While winger Simon Power serves the third of his three game suspension for a red card against Waterford. 

The Bit O’Red were heavy winners the last time these teams met at Oriel Park in early March. 

Rovers beat Dundalk by five goals to nil that night, but manager John Russell says the County Louth side pose a big threat as they look for their first win of the season. 

“We know the importance of this weekend”, he said. 

“With two home games in quick succession it gives us an opportunity to bounce back after last weekend’s defeat to Shamrock Rovers. 

“Dundalk were probably the better team on Monday night against Bohemians even though they came away with nothing. They have good players who can hurt you so we’re aware of the threat they bring. 

“We know the areas we need to improve on and the players are fully focused and ready for the challenge ahead on Friday night.”