Saints on Reds alert

SLIGO ROVERS have a mountain to climb at the Showgrounds today as they attempt to overturn a 4-1 deficit in the second leg of their Setanta Cup semi-final against St Patrick’s Athletic (5.15pm, Setanta Ireland).

But, guarding against complacency, Pats boss Pete Mahon has been quick to point out that Manchester United were three goals up against Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-final and still lost out on aggregate.

“Sligo Rovers certainly possess the ability to punish anyone who believes that this semi-final is over,” he said.

Brian Cash is ruled out for Pats having played for Sligo in the earlier stages of their Setanta Cup campaign last year. Conor Kenna (ankle), Ian Bermingham (thigh strain) and Vinnie Faherty (thigh strain) all trained this week but will face late fitness tests ahead of this evening’s game.

In the event of the final score being level on aggregate, 30 minutes of extra-time will be played. If, after that, the score is still level, then a penalty shoot-out will determine the winners of the tie.

Meanwhile, in the Airtricity League First Division this evening, it’s Salthill Devon v Limerick (7pm), Longford Town v Mervue United (7.30pm) and Finn Harps v Athlone Town (7.45pm).

Tomorrow will see Wexford Youths hosting Derry City with the Ferrycarring Park kick off at 2pm.