Finn Harps v Cork City (7.30)

Cork's problems look to be potentially a good deal greater than the home side's. Liam O'Brien's injury, the effects of having returned from Sweden only yesterday and the knock-on of the defeat itself, are, presumably, sources of concern for Dave Barry.

Charlie McGeever's view of his side last season was that they did well against the big sides but were careless against those that should have been put away. They put City out of the cup, of course, but they will have to better than one point from nine against the southerners this time around if they are to improve on last year's league showing.

McGeever is pleased with signing Johny Kenny particularly. Tom Mohan and Paddy McGrenaghan are carrying slight knocks but may be fit enough to play. Trevor Scanlon is suspended.

Last season: City 2 Harps 0, Harps 1 City 1, City 2 Harps 1. Betting: Home: 7/4, Draw: 9/4, Away: 5/4.

Referee: J McDermott (Dublin).

Sligo Rovers v UCD (7.30)

Aside from new boy Darren McGee, Jim McInally has a full squad to choose from for his first competitive match in charge at the Showgrounds.

With UCD's strong tradition of attempting to play ball, that should make for a decent game tonight. The students, unusually, travel to their opening game with every one of last year's squad still within the camp. Brian Mooney and Peter Hanrahan will provide options for Theo Dunne and Dr Tony O'Neill.

Last season: UCD 2 Rovers 0, Rovers 0 UCD 1, UCD 0 Rovers 0. Betting: Home: 5/4, Draw: 9/4, Away: 7/4.

Referee: P Whelan (Dublin).