Defence the key to success

The Judges Road men last weekend had First Trust Senior Cup disappointment when they lost out at the semi-final stage to Division 1B out-fit Ballymena.

Bevan Lynch’s side will hope to get back to winning ways and get their inconsistent league campaign back on track.

The Waterside men will be looking to build on their last AIL performance, a brilliant away win at Old Wesley, they secured a great victory with 14 men after Sam McAuley was red carded after only 28 minutes play.

Looking forward to Saturday’s encounter Bob McKillop believes that a good defence and home advantage are key elements to success.

“For us home games are important. We are coming off the back of two or three good results. At Old Wesley down there to win with 14 men was a big ask and it’s something the boys worked hard to earn.

“With Seapoint at home we are coming off the back of some good performances and we will be disappointed if we don’t pick up a win.”

The game could prove to be a tight affair with Seapoint sitting three points ahead of Derry in seventh position.

The experienced forward believes that the defence has to improve in order for Derry to win games: “It is important to keep your momentum when you are getting your wins. We have to iron out the mistakes and work as hard as we can in defence.”

McKillop praised the quality of the teams in Division 2B: “It’s a very tight AIL 2 and we don’t get away with mistakes.

“The teams are very well organised and the defences are good so we need to cut out the mistakes. If we keep the tempo of play up and play the way we have we should win.”

City of Derry have suffered some injuries and suspensions but McKillop has praised his team mates that have stepped in to cover. “The step up to 2B has been physical. A lot of the teams are solid and the guys that are coming in are working hard. Our attack is good but it’s all about tightening up our defence and not to leak silly tries.”