Mahon positive his disgruntled Saints will perform

AS if conceding a late second goal in the Ukraine wasn’t enough of a handicap, St Patrick’s Athletic face into tonight’s second leg Europa League game against Karpaty Lviv with the club rocked by a dispute over bonuses.

But despite the fact that the players have imposed a media blackout and are even said to be contemplating strike action, manager Pete Mahon is confident that the game — which, because of UEFA regulations takes place in Tallaght Stadium (kick-off 7.45pm) — will go ahead.

“I think I know the players better than anyone,” he said. “They’ve been very professional all along and I don’t see any reason why that would change now. I’m very disappointed that we find ourselves in this position but I’d be very surprised, I’d actually be shocked, if our players didn’t play.”