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Mathews has played down suggestions that the tie is in Shels' favour. INPHO/Ryan Byrne

FAI Cup semi-final replay preview: Mathews plays down favourites tag

Derry have three injury worries ahead of tonight’s game, while Shels have a full squad to choose from.

BARRY MOLLOY, STEPHEN McLaughlin and Rory Patterson are all doubtful for Derry, as they prepare to face Shelbourne in tonight’s FAI Cup semi-final replay at Tolka Park (kick-off time 8pm).

Shels, on the other hand, have a full squad to choose from for the game.

The two sides originally met last Sunday, with the match at the Brandywell ending in a 1-1 draw.

Having earned an away draw, many commentators feel Shelbourne are now favourites to progress, but manager Alan Mathews claims this isn’t the case.

“Last year we were held to a draw by St. Pat’s at this same stage of the competition, but we traveled to Richmond Park and returned with a 3-1 victory, so I don’t accept that the pendulum has swung in our favour.

“It’s another cup match, it may well be a different type of game but yes, we will be playing at home and we must try to take advantage of that fact.”

Speaking to BBC Radio Foyle, Derry boss Declan Devine said his side were unlucky not to have won the game.

“I felt we totally dominated the second half,” he said.

“Our approach play in the second half was very good. We passed the ball very well and asked questions of their back-four. That’s what we want again come Wednesday night.”

He continued: “We respect going away from home against good opposition and it’s going to be a very difficult game.

“But in terms of fear factor, there is none.”

Read: World Cup qualifier: Ireland will go for broke against Germany, says Tardelli>

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