Under-pressure Foster faces vital test

Dundalk will be afforded the chance to exact swift retribution when Bohemians visit Oriel Park tonight, kick-off 7.45pm.

The teams met in the league at Dalymount Park on Monday where Bohs ran out 3-1 winners, which saw them move 10 points clear of the Lilywhites and tighten their grip on fifth spot in the Premier Division.

With little left to play for in the league, the cup offers the hosts their only remaining chance to claim some silverware this season. Manager Ian Foster is keen for his men to grasp that opportunity.

“Tonight is a huge event and we are all really looking forward to it,” Foster wrote in his programme notes for the match.

“We have been blessed this season with the cup run that we enjoyed in the Setanta Sports Cup, and hopefully we can continue that in this competition.

“We know that it’s not going to be easy. But we’ll give it everything we’ve got and see if we can progress to the last four. My players will be desperate to do so.

“Some of them have never progressed to that round of the cup, and what I can guarantee is that we’ll have 11 players on the pitch who are totally committed, who will know their jobs, who will know their responsibilities and who will give it everything they’ve got.

The former Galway United boss will have Keith Ward available again after suspension, but a long injury list continues to hinder his side’s progress.

Eoghan Osborne (fractured tibia), Stephen McDonnell (knee), Stephen Maher (fractured metatarsal) and Chris Kerr (torn hamstring) all remain on the treatment table, while Colin Hawkins (knee) and Ross Gaynor (ankle) are considered doubtful.

Bohemians are likely to recall Aidan Price after he was rested for Monday’s game.

The former Shamrock Rovers defender has been troubled by an ankle injury recently. Veteran Ollie Cahill may not be fit for selection.