Mathews plays it cool as Shels look to stun Saints in cup semi-final derby

AS IF to illustrate just how long they’ve been out of the big time of Irish domestic football, Alan Mathews was yesterday reminded the last time Shelbourne featured live on television was when they were winning the league back in 2006.

Tonight they’re back in the limelight, hosting St Patrick’s Athletic in the FAI Cup semi-final (7.35pm, live on RTÉ2).

It’s been a long five years since the financial crisis saw the club crash and burn. But, like a Phoenix from the flames, promotion coupled to a cup final appearance, would be a very welcome renaissance in 2011.