Tonight - Premier Division
St Patrick's Ath v Bohemians (7.45)
THEIR respective targets might seem worlds apart just now but these teams have plenty to play for in this evening's derby match at Richmond Park where each will be looking to improve on recent form.
St Patrick's, will hope to extend their threepoint lead at the top of the table. Their recent league results have been a little disappointing and the goals have started to dry up while last week's exit from the cup is a shock they need to get out of their system as quickly as possible.
Being without Eddie Gormley for a few weeks won't help the champions but manager Liam Buckley has several players keen to get a run in the first team. Thomas Morgan came on for Gormley in Terryland Park and was one of the visiting side's better performers on the night but Buckley claims to be contemplating some positional tinkering which could mean a run out for the likes of Paul Campbell, Robbie Devereux or Jeff Clarke with Trevor Croly possibly shifting into midfield.
Bohemians have Tony O'Connor and Michael Dempsey back from injury and they are expected to return to the team. Manager Roddy Collins, who has just signed up to stay at Dalymount until the end of next season, has a couple of problems elsewhere, though, with Ray Kelly doubtful because of a bout of tonsilitis and Robbie Brunton ruled out by suspension. Graham Lawlor, on the other hand, should play some part despite a minor back problem.
Last two seasons: 1997/98: St Patrick's 0, Bohemians 0; Bohemians 0, St Patrick's 0; St Patrick's 0, Bohemians 2; 98/99: St Patrick's 3, Bohemians 0; Bohemians 1, St Patrick's 1.
Recent league form: St Patrick's: W W D W D; Bohemians: W D L L L.
Leading scorers: St Patrick's - Gilzean (12), Molloy (10); Bohemians - Swan (nine).
Betting: Home: 4/6, Draw: 9/4, Away: 4/1.
First Division
A TRIP to Athlone could be just the game to bring Galway United down to earth with a bang as manager Don O'Riordan knows only too well.
Athlone may be second from bottom but at home they have achieved some highly respectable results including a 2-2 draw with United (after having been 2-0 down) as well as wins over Cobh and Longford.
In the circumstances, O'Riordan will hope to have Ollie Keogh back in his starting line-up but the former Mervue player is doubtful as a result of a knock picked up in a reserve game last weekend.
Limerick who are now out of the running for promotion themselves after going 12 matches without a win, will attempt to deal another blow to Longford Town's aspirations.
Limerick manager Tommy Lynch is without Michael Kerley (hamstring) and Declan Considine (suspended) but Albert Finnan and Paddy Doyle are both available again although neither is certain of his place.
