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.