Mark Connolly: "We want to show our appreciation to the fans"

​It's been a disruptive season at the Lone Moor Road venue where Derry began the season on artificial turf under Tiernan Lynch but finish the campaign on natural ground and a much more solid footing under interim boss Connolly.

Despite the anticipated title challenge failing to materialise, Derry fans stuck by their team and made the short journey across to nearby Celtic Park in their thousands for two months as work was completed on what is one of the best grass surfaces in the country.

There may be nothing but pride at stake as they take on the Lilywhites at Brandywell but fans can look forward to the FAI Cup Final at the start of next month. Connolly hopes to drum up support with another performance they can be proud of.

"I think it's crucial we go out and put in a good performance," he said. "We also want to show our appreciation to the fans. Hopefully there's decent numbers because they deserve it. “They've stuck by us through a lot of tough times this year. Hopefully, well certainly after the game, we can show our appreciation to them."

Games between Derry and Dundalk have produced 17 goals this season and Connolly hopes it's another entertaining affair for the fans to enjoy.

"For the fans they would enjoy a ding-dong but for me it's not ideal being an ex-defender and if we can keep a clean sheet it would be great.

"Dundalk to be fair, they go for it. They don't sit on the edge of their 18 yard box and soak up pressure. They come after you and get into your face which is good. That's how I like to see football played - frontfoot football which is good for the fans and I've no doubt it will be like that on Friday."

Captain Michael Duffy, Adam O'Reilly are considered doubtful for the game having missed out on Monday night with knocks. James Olayinka has been ruled out while Liam Boyce is also nursing an injury.

Gavin Whyte and Darragh Markey continue their comebacks and are expected to be involved in the squad once again Connolly is eager to give those who have been on the fringes some gametime.

"It's great to see them back Gavin hasn't played in a good while and came on in a very difficult game against Drogheda and hopefully we'll see him again in the next few games. Obviously, Darragh Markey's another one.

"It's been tough for him with his injury but he's way ahead of schedule which is testament to him and how he's looked after himself so it's great to have him back involved.

"There's boys who deserve to be playing and deserve to get minutes. The boys who have come in recently have done really well. Listen there's a few bumps and bruises at this stage of the season. We're just making sure we look at them and don't risk too much.

"Anyone that's playing we're trying to keep the momentum going and I think that showed on Monday."