Stephen Kenny baffled as BATE head-butter free to play

The Dundalk Democrat has a 12-page pull-out on the game which they’re calling the biggest at Oriel Park since the fabled European Cup tie with Celtic in 1979.

The buzzing faithful are planning a march from the centre of town to the ground before kick-off.

Ireland manager Martin O’Neill plans to attend and, although the ‘sold out’ signs are up, it’s expected the club will facilitate a late request from superstar Ed Sheeran for two tickets for the game — although officials have mischievously suggested that the singer-songwriter reciprocate by wearing a Lilywhites jersey when he performs in Dublin at the weekend.