Minnows to stake place in FAI Cup limelight

THE 2004 FAI Carlsberg Cup kicks off this weekend with the 20 junior and intermediate sides all dreaming of cup glory next October.

While repeating St Francis's feat of reaching the final in 1990 would be very difficult, for all the sides involved, the chance to become giantkillers in the second round when the Eircom League clubs enter the competition is a big incentive.

Skerries Town were last year's heroes as they eliminated Longford Town while Fairview Rangers knocked out Dublin City in the previous year. At this stage, all 20 sides will be hoping to follow in those two clubs' footsteps.