Champions Shels confirm away dates

Eircom Premier Division champions Shelbourne have released details of two upcoming friendlies ahead of their defence of their crown, beginning the week of March 21.

Eircom Premier Division champions Shelbourne have released details of two upcoming friendlies ahead of their defence of their crown, which begins the week of March 21.

Pat Fenlon’s side will travel to Ballybofey during the last week of February, to take on Noel King’s Finn Harps, narrowly beaten by Derry City in last month’s promotion/relegation play-off final.

A second date has been added for Friday, March 5, with Shels travelling north again to take on Irish League club Portadown in Shamrock Park, kick-off 7.45pm.

Full fixtures for the new season will be released by the eircom League on February 8, with First Division champions Dublin City also busying themselves with friendly preparations.

City, Shelbourne’s tenants for this season at Tolka Park, have confirmed away fixtures against Athlone Town (February 20) in St Mel’s Park and UCD (March 6) in Belfield. The Tolka Park pitch is currently unplayable due to continuing repairs.