Derry have had a season overshadowed by tragedy due to the untimely demise of their skipper Ryan McBride, who passed away in March, four games into the season.
The Candystripes were leading the league on goal-difference prior to his death, having won their opening four games, but were never the same after returning from a two-week break from action caused by his death, as they needed as many as seven games to return to winning ways, although it was quite evident that their performances got gradually better over time.
Kenny Shiels's men eventually completely settled in their stride and started to battle it out with Shamrock for the third place in the table. It was a battle which they eventually lost, but they still managed to finish fourth and qualify for Europe next season, which was in line with their pre-season expectations and a truly impressive achievement when having in mind what they had to go through.
St.Patrick's manager Liam Buckley has recently stated that he believed that Derry would have won the title had it not been for McBride's death. Unfortunately, we will never find out whether or not the experienced manager was right in his assessment, but what is certain is that Derry have once again reaffirmed their position as one of the league's top sides and their fans have reasons to be pleased.
While not being as big of a club as the other three that finished in the top four, the Candystripes are definitely well-run and consistent and maybe, just maybe, will fancy their chances of making the step up and pushing for the title next time around.
