Osam puts operation on hold
Osam has been out of action with a knee injury for the past month but he has postponed a planned operation in order to make this game.
He will have a late fitness test as manager Eamonn Collins seeks to rejuvenate Pat’s after their heavy defeat by Drogheda United last week.
This clash should attract a capacity attendance as both teams must be rated among the favourites to win the competition. It is surprising to reflect on the fact that Rovers, with a record 24 cup wins, have not won since 1987 and St Pats’ last cup triumph was in 1961.
Said Rovers’ manager Liam Buckley: “We were probably tired last week after four weeks of competition in Europe, but you can be sure the players will be ready for this match. It should be a great occasion.”
One of those games that looks capable of producing a surprise result is the Crumlin United and Kildare County match at Station Road ground in Newbridge.
The two most famous graduates of Crumlin United were Robbie Keane and Brian Kerr, but manager Martin Loughran is hoping the current batch of players will give people a new reason for praising the club.
“The players came back from holidays a month ago to begin preparations for this match,” said Martin. “We’ve had five matches in practice and we’re looking to cause an upset.”
Drogheda United have been tipped as a likely outside bet to win the cup on the strength of wins over Shamrock Rovers and Cork City but they face a difficult first test against Finn Harps in Ballybofey.
Manager Harry McCue said: “Games between our two clubs have always been close, but on our last two visits up there we have drawn with them and hopefully our experience in the Premier Division will give us an edge.”
UCD manager Paul Doolin will look to their cup match against Leinster league side Belgrove United as an opportunity to build on their relative success against Shels last week.
UCD’s league form has been disappointing but there is a potential within their young side just waiting to flower. For instance their full-back Hugh Davey from Newry, played for Northern Ireland against Brazil in an U20 international at Windsor Park last week.
With players of such talent in their ranks, UCD are capable of rescuing their season but unfortunately they are likely to be missing the experienced Tony McDonnell from midfield because of a hamstring injury.
Said Doolin: “It was pleasing to hold Shels but we must build on that now. Hopefully that result will have done much to boost players’ confidence.”
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