Bohemians' excellent form towards the end of the season has now seen them unbeaten in five games, winning their last two. Unfortunately, the succession of losses back in the autumn prevented any sort of challenge, and the more pressing concern in recent weeks has been avoiding relegation.

Victory over Derry on Saturday means they need just one more win to be mathematically safe. Shelbourne, however, are equally hungry for the points to put their European place in concrete, all of which should create a highly competitive affair at Tolka Park.

"This may as well be a cup final," says Bohemians manager Roddy Collins, "but I think we're going to get the points. Everybody is buzzing here and the form is great." Once again there are no injury complaints in the Bohemians side, although the opposite problem remains for Shelbourne. Manager Dermot Keely continues to juggle names and places as almost half his regulars are out through various ailments or international duty.

Declan Geoghegan, Dave Campbell and Mick Neville are the most notable absentees while Dave Byrne, Keith O'Brien and John Lubby were again called up from the youths team for last weekend's victory against sinking Dundalk. Byrne made a strong impression there, scoring in only his third start at this level, and they will also have Owen Heery back from suspension.

Finn Harps have now jumped to fourth after their win over Shamrock Rovers on Tuesday and with the extra game to play (and 12 points available), remain the last big threat to Shelbourne. Having to face an away match against Cork City, Shelbourne can't afford any setbacks at this late stage.

Last two seasons: 1997/98: Bohemians 1 Shelbourne 0, Shelbourne 0 Bohemians 1, Bohemians 0 Shelbourne 1; 98/99: Shelbourne 2 Bohemians 1, Bohemians 2 Shelbourne 0.

Recent league form: Shelbourne: WWLDW; Bohemians: WDDWW.

Leading scorers: Shelbourne: Sheridan 10; Bohemians: Swan 11.

Betting: Home: 6/5; draw: 2/1; away: 9/4.

Referee: H Byrne (Dublin).

Betting courtesy of Paddy Power