Drogs and Pat’s must up the heat

Third-placed Drogheda United host second-placed St Patrick’s Athletic in tonight’s televised clash at Hunky Dorys Park (RTÉ 2 7.05pm), with the reward on offer a chance to cut Sligo Rovers’ lead at the top at least until tomorrow when the Bit O’ Red face Derry City in a North-West derby.

Both sides go into the game on the back of victories over defending champions Shamrock Rovers, the Saints having recorded a hard-fought 2-1 win against their Dublin rivals on Tuesday, while Drogheda defeated the Hoops 3-1 in the EA Sports Cup final last Saturday.

“Tuesday’s win was really key as it leaves us in a good position ahead of the game in Drogheda,” says Pat’s boss Liam Buckley. “There’s a lot at stake on Friday as a win for either side will leave them in a strong position for second place and move [them] closer to Sligo.

“Drogheda have had a fantastic season to date, their EA Sports Cup victory was thoroughly deserved and in terms of the league, they are third on merit. Mick Cooke has done a tremendous job and they’ve given us four tough games to date this season. We’re expecting no different on Friday night.”

Following the Saints’ midweek fixture, Buckley reported that other than a few knocks sustained, his side has no additional injuries. Pat’s do remain without the services of Mark Rossiter (knee), while Dean Kelly, Hernany Macedo and John Russell are all doubts.

They are, however, boosted by the return of Chris Forrester following his one-match suspension.

For the home side, manager Mick Cooke will be without talisman Declan O’Brien but Michael Schlingermann, Michael Marks and John Sullivan are all available for selection.

“Liam Buckley and I are both out to win this while I’m sure Sligo will be hoping for us to draw,” says Cooke.

“But one thing Saturday has done for us, is get the monkey off the players’ back about beating Shamrock Rovers. We lost to them three times this season and to finally beat them will do wonders for our confidence.”

In tonight’s other Premier Division games, Shamrock Rovers will be hoping to revive their faltering European hopes when they take on Dundalk at Tallaght Stadium (8pm), while UCD host Bohemians at the UCD Bowl (7.45pm) and Shelbourne are at home to Bray Wanderers in Tolka Park (8pm).

In the First Division, meanwhile, Limerick welcome Athlone Town to Jackman Park while Mervue United face Wexford Youths at Fahy’s Field, both games kicking off at 7.45pm.