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Shaun Keenan

Ruaidhri Higgins keeping Derry's feet on ground ahead of Sligo clash

Derry City manager Ruaidhri Higgins' insists that his side must not read too much into the hype following his sides' impressive 2-1 win over Shamrock Rovers on Friday night.

The Candystripes face Sligo Rovers on Monday night and Higgins said Derry cannot afford to lose their momentum ahead of the first North-West derby at the Brandywell.

The 'Bit 'o Red' got their own campaign off to a fantastic start at the weekend with an impressive win in Inchicore against St Patrick's Athletic.

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"Once we came off the field we were turning our attention to Monday night. We can't afford to lose the momentum of nights like this," Higgins said.

"Of course, it's a tough start but every game in this league is a challenge.

"Sligo have gone to St Pats and won and not many teams will do that this season. They're a very good side and we need to be at the top of our game."

Derry City v Shamrock Rovers (Inpho/Evan Logan)

Meanwhile, the Lonemoor Road outfit will be without midfielder Ciaron Harkin after he was forced off towards the end of Friday night's match.

"We'll have him scanned this week to see the extent of the injury but he'll play no part in this one. Other than that we're working with the same squad from the weekend" added Higgins.

Sligo Rovers only took one point from Derry City last season and the Derry supremo said they'll be counting on another packed crowd to spur his side on again.

Higgins said: "They were outstanding all night and that really drove the players on.

"I know we'll be in front of another full house tonight and hopefully they can lift us towards another positive result."

The game kicks off at 7.45 and will be shown live on LOITV.

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