Limerick bid to halt losing run against Hoops

After suffering narrow back-to-back defeats by Sligo Rovers and St Patrick’s Athletic, Limerick are hoping for an improved return at Thomond Park this evening, when they host a Shamrock Rovers side desperate for a win.

With goals hard to come by, the Hoops have drawn four of their five games. They needed a late Derek Foran equaliser to deny Cork City three points at home on Friday and although they remain unbeaten, the Rovers support are already getting on the back of new manager Trevor Croly with Sligo opening up a gap.

Limerick boss Stuart Taylor returns to the sideline after missing Saturday’s defeat through suspension, while Dave O’Leary and Rory Gaffney are both nearing fitness and may be involved. Axel Bossekota remains suspended and Dom Foley is still injured.

Meanwhile, Richmond Park will throw open its gates for the first time since the opening weekend of the campaign when St Pat’s welcome Dundalk to Inchicore. Pat’s had two of their games postponed due to a waterlogged pitch last month.

It meant the Saints were out of action for over a fortnight before Saturday evening’s win at Thomond, but showed no sign of rustiness with an impressive defensive showing as Killian Brennan’s penalty gave them the points.

Dundalk will be without Stephen McDonnell, but with 48 hours’ extra rest – having come from two goals down to draw with local rivals Drogheda United last Thursday – they will fancy their chances of coming away with a result. They have started the season in impressive fashion, winning both away games to date at Shelbourne and UCD. Pat’s will be at full strength.