League leaders Shelbourne face Dublin rivals St. Patrick's Athletic while Drogheda United entertain Longford Town and Bohemians travel play Waterford United in tomorrow's eircom Premier League matches.
Drogheda United v Longford Town
Midfielder Darren Beesley could finally make his return to the Drogheda squad following almost a month out with a back strain. "We played well against Shels but gave away a silly goal," said Drogheda boss Paul Doolin of their 1-0 defeat on Tuesday.
Town boss Alan Matthews is totally frustrated that his side has picked up just one point from four games. "We had loads of chances against Cork on Tuesday but the finishing was poor and then we gave away a terrible penalty," said Matthews. Midfielder Darragh Sheridan is Town's big doubt with an ankle injury.
Waterford United v Bohemians
"If you don't score goals you don't win games," says Blues' boss Jimmy McGeough whose side has scored just twice in a six match run without a league win. "The thought of beating the champions will give us added incentive," added McGeough who is again missing defender Willie Byrne (groin).
Bohs remain without Thomas Heary and Mark Rutherford while Jason McGuinness is now out with an ankle injury. Colin Hawkins, though back in training, is unlikely to be risked as Bohs look for a sixth league win on the spin. "We're enjoying the run of games," said Bohs boss Stephen Kenny. "Waterford have a good home record and they will be keen to atone for their defeat at UCD, so it will be a tough game."
Shelbourne v St. Patrick's Athletic
Leaders Shels expect winger Richie Baker and defender Kevin Doherty to return to the squad having missed the 1-0 win at Drogheda on Tuesday with injury. "Other people may say we're not playing very well at the minute, but I'm very satisfied," said Shels boss Pat Fenlon. "We've had just one defeat in 20 games and have won our last four."
St. Pat's, unbeaten in eleven games, are struggling with a host of injuries. Davy Byrne (foot), Paul Osam (ankle), Colm Foley (illness), Paul Donnelly (pubic bone), Clive Delaney (ankle) and Paul Rose (hamstring) are all out while David Freeman and Karim El Khebyr are doubts but should be passed fit. On the plus side, Tony Bird returns from suspension. "I watched Shels on Tuesday and they are flying. It's a massive test for us," says St. Pat's boss Eamonn Collins.
Filed by Johnny Proby
