Anthony Fennelly confident Derry City can overcome Sofia defeat in second league at Brandywell

Derry City goalkeeping coach Anthony Fennelly from Cork believes the two crucial away goals scored in last week's first leg against CSKA Sofia have given the Candystripes every chance of progressing when the sides meet again at an expected packed Brandywell on Thursday night.

Despite suffering a 3-2 defeat in Bulgaria, Derry returned home with the tie very much alive, and Fennelly insists the mood around the camp reflects the belief that they can overturn the deficit in front of their own supporters.

"The mood in the camp is great," Fennelly said. The lads really enjoyed the game and are very much looking forward to the return leg this Thursday.

"The plan was to go over and get a positive result against a very good CSKA Sofia side and make sure the tie was still alive for the home leg. The two goals have done that, and now we'll have a packed Brandywell where the fans will play a massive part for us."

"We went with a game plan to keep it tight and limit their chances. We knew it would be a hostile crowd and, to be honest, there was very little in the game.

"Their first goal came from a corner that we probably could have cleared, but Boycie got us level and there wasn't much between the sides. Then, just before half-time, they scored an absolute rocket of a goal."

When CSKA extended their advantage after the break, it would have been easy for Derry's heads to drop. Instead, Fennelly was impressed by the resilience shown by Ruaidhrí Higgins' side.

"We started the second half well but conceding the third goal was so disappointing. Lesser teams would have buckled and gone under, but we have serious talent in that dressing room. The lads dug deep and got a grip of the game again.

Our second goal was fantastic. I think there were 27 passes in the move, and that's the type of football we want to play."

The late strike has transformed the complexion of the tie, and Derry will also be boosted by the return of influential midfielders Adam O'Reilly, from Cork, and Brandon Fleming after suspension.

"We'll have Adam back and his energy in the middle is fantastic. Brandon will be back as well and they are two very big players for us.

"We'll be going out to win the game on Thursday and progress to the next round."

“Victory would represent another memorable European night for the club and provide a significant lift following an inconsistent domestic campaign.

"We've been very hit and miss in the league this year and we're not where we want to be or where we should be with the talent we have in the group.

"We need a big second half to the season. We have some top, top players who work incredibly hard every day and deserve to be playing at this level every year."

Critical

European football has become increasingly important to Derry City's ambitions, both on and off the pitch.

"We had a strong second half to last season and finished second to secure European football. It's massive for clubs financially, but it also helps when you're recruiting players.

"It can be the difference between signing someone or not because players want to play in Europe."

Now in his second season as Derry City's head of goalkeeping, Fennelly also praised the environment created by Higgins and the wider coaching staff.

"The gaffer is excellent to work with. We're a very close coaching group with Andy Mitchell, Danny Doherty, Colm and the medical staff. Everyone has a big say in how we prepare and how we approach games. 

The manager encourages debate and wants everyone to speak up, even if it's not always what he wants to hear."

Fennelly also welcomed the return of first-choice goalkeeper Brian Maher after injury.

"Brian breaking his hand in pre-season was a massive blow because he'd been one of the best goalkeepers in the league for the last few years. His experience and personality are difficult to replace.

"It was great to have him back in Sofia and I thought he was very good. Eddie Beach did an excellent job while Brian was out, and now with Brian back alongside our young keepers Shea Callister and Cole Smyth, we're in a very strong position."

With a sold-out Brandywell expected to generate a famous European atmosphere, Fennelly hopes another memorable night awaits.