Stephen Kenny starts his first full season in charge of Derry

Former Bohemians boss Kenny starts his first full season in charge of the Candystripes with a tough trip to Drogheda United on Friday 18 March.

"We are not the finished article by any means but we must be looking to get into the top half of the table," said Kenny who took over in August 2004.

"For the last few season Derry have been battling against relegation.

"We want to get away from that. There is a lot of talent at the club."

With the top flight increased to 12 clubs, Derry will have 33 league fixtures, playing their rivals three times.

'Most encouraging'

The draw has left Kenny's side with 16 at home and 17 away and they have a daunting start. After Drogheda, they face Longford Town, Bohemians and champions Shelbourne.

"The most encouraging thing for me is that 95% of the players now live in Derry," added Kenny.

"Alan Murphy and David Forde have relocated from Galway, Brian Cash has moved from Dublin and Killian Brennan from Drogheda.

"I think that is important if we are going to be successful in the league. It helps the players work together and is good for morale."

Former Nottingham Forest player Cash was one of Kenny's close season signings, with former Drogheda star Barry Molloy also joining.