We have right recipe to stun Saints

The bookmakers price them a staggering 18/1 to win but Athlone manager Mick Cooke believes his side can cause an upset as they visit reigning champions St Patrick’s Athletic tonight.

Defeat to Dundalk last Monday was Athlone’s ninth on the spin equalling the worst start to a League of Ireland (top division) season in 71 years.

“It’s a huge ask to go to Richmond Park and get a result but we’re well capable of doing it,” said an upbeat Cooke. “No-one gave us a chance against Dundalk on Monday, but we were excellent despite missing a number of players and anyone there will tell you we deserved at least a point.”