Whatever about what happened on the pitch, 2017 will always be the year that Derry City tragically lost Ryan McBride. The passing of the club captain rocked everyone and it clearly took a lot out of the players. Manager Kenny Shiels did a good jo
Whatever about what happened on the pitch, 2017 will always be the year that Derry City tragically lost Ryan McBride.
The passing of the club captain rocked everyone and it clearly took a lot out of the players. Manager Kenny Shiels did a good job in refocusing the team as much as he could but it wasn't always easy.
A number of young players impressed for The Candystripes, including Aaron McEneff, Conor McDermott, and Ronan Curtis, yet there was a sense that there was another level that they never reached.
Finishing in the top four was quite a feat - especially since they were not playing their home games at the Brandywell, which may explain their poor home form.
Star Player: Aaron McEneff
McCourt, McClean, McGinn, McEleney...and, now, McEneff. They like their playmakers to have a 'Mc' in their name up in Derry. And this talented attacker is someone who deserves to be mentioned alongside some of the club's legends such is his knack of turning a game.
What They Need For 2018
Double figures from Ronan Curtis: The easy option would be to pump the ball into Rory Patterson all day long and that may be a tactic that Shiels will employ at times. But Curtis is someone who can contribute more for them up front as he is capable of scoring goals just as much as Patterson is.
Comfort at the Brandywell: The stadium has been redeveloped and they are moving back home for 2018. There is no place like home and that should make a difference in 2018.
Realistic Targets For 2018
Top Five Finish: Derry only finished three points behind Shamrock Rovers (who were in third place) last season, so a top three finish may be on their agenda. But top five should be the minimum required from this squad.
Stronger showing in Europe: It just didn't happen for Derry in Europe last year. Injuries came at the wrong time and they were completely overpowered. It can only get better.
Best Signing Made So Far
Rory Hale: There were flashes of Hale's quality whilst at Galway United last season, but he still has a lot to add to his game. A two-way midfielder, he could emerge as an important addition.
