Pat’s wait on Byrne for derby clash with Hoops

ST PAT’S manager Eamonn Collins is anxiously awaiting a fitness report on midfielder Davy Byrne before attempting to plot the downfall of Shamrock Rovers in the first big derby game of the eircom League season at Richmond Park tonight (7.45).

Byrne anchored the team impressively in midfield alongside Paul Osam against Cork City at Turner’s Cross after his transfer from Shelbourne.

Collins will look to this pair, together with powerful centre-backs Colm Foley and Darragh Maguire, to provide the base upon which St. Pat’s will build their season. Few other teams are as well served in these areas.