'The pressure was on us to win' - Derry City's Jack Malone

Defeat by Dundalk on Monday night left Derry struggling in eighth position going into the final three league games but a dominant victory over Shelbourne in the club's final home game of the season catapulted them into fifth spot.

Despite impressive performances against Waterford and Dundalk in their last two outings, 20 year-old Malone claimed the team desperately needed to get points on the board.

"We've been playing well, that's the thing," said the Top of the Hill man. "But, listen, if you're not getting points you'll always get criticised. The pressure was on tonight, let's not beat about the bush here.

"There was pressure on us to win tonight. We reacted to that again and got the three points so we're all happy."

Malone, naturally a central midfielder, started the game on the right wing and following a quick reshuffle when Ciaron Coll went off injured at half-time he was deployed at right back.

He's started the last two games for the Candy Stripes and his versatility and workrate has been rewarded by City boss, Declan Devine.

The talented midfielder is delighted to play his part and despite his maturity and undoubted ability, he admits he continues to learn from his more experienced teammates.

"My aim this year after coming in halfway through last season, was to play as many games as I can whether that means playing out the right or right back or wherever, the quality we have in midfield is exceptional.

"There's boys like Gerardo Bruna on the bench coming back from injury and you just learn off boys like that and I'm happy to help the team when needed."

After a slow start against Dundalk midweek when they conceded two goals in the opening 15 minutes, Malone said it was imperative Derry began sharply against Shelbourne.

"We had a gameplan from the start and we started quick but we needed the three points after what happened against Dundalk on Monday.

"We've been playing well and haven't been picking up much points. But we regrouped and it's a vital three points for us."

The win puts Derry in fifth position going into their final two league matches and it would take a brave man to predict the final standings after a tumultuous season.

"The league this year has been madness," agreed Malone. "Every three points and even a point is vital. Hopefully we just finish the season strongly and get as many points as we can."

Friday's game was Derry's final league match of the season at Brandywell and Malone claims it just hasn't been the same without the City Faithful.

"The Brandywell is not the same without the fans. They make a big difference to us. We could've used them when we played Dundalk earlier in the week during stages.

"I'm just looking forward to getting them all back next year again. I can't wait to have the Brandywell packed again."