There was good news for Shamrock Rovers boss Damien Richardson this afternoon when Pat Scully declared himself fit to face Bray Wanderers at Richmond Park tonight.
Richardson, however, will have to wait until just before kick-off to find out know whether in-form strikers Tony Grant and Sean Francis will be available - both will have fitness tests before the game. Tony Cousins and Stephen Grant are on standby to take their places for a match that has taken on additional meaning following Bohemians defeat away to Derry City last night.
"The league is hotting up nicely now," Richardson told ireland.com, "and the defeat for Bohs has given us an extra an incentive for tonight - we know that if we win, we'll go six points clear at the top."
While most observers believe Bohemians are Rovers’ main rivals for the title, at least as long as St. Patrick’s Athletic nine point deduction remains in force, Richardson is reluctant to dismiss the threat of Derry.
The Candystripes have only dropped two points at home all season, and their list of victories includes a 2-0 win over Rovers themselves.
"Derry are becoming serious title contenders," said Richardson, "essentially because of their form at the Brandywell which seems to be becoming a bit of a fortress."