Hoops without five for re-fixed Waterford clash

Shamrock Rovers host Waterford United in this rescheduled eircom League of Ireland Premier Division clash at Tolka Park, kick-off 8.00pm.

The original fixture was abandoned due to an unsafe floodlight pylon with the game evenly poised at 1-1.

The Hoops are still without long-term casualties Paul Shiels, Eric McGill and captain Aidan Price, while Barry Murphy (back) and Derek Pender (calf) also remain unavailable.

Recent signing from Longford Town John Martin is expected to be in the squad, while there are doubts about the fitness of Dean Lawrence and Dave Tyrrell.

"Once we get clearance that he's available, John Martin will be in the squad," said Hoops boss Pat Scully. "Dean and Dave both suffered hamstring strains and will be subject to late fitness tests."

"They're very physical; a strong side. If you don't play to your full potential against them you'll have problems. They'd a great win last Friday against St Patrick's Athletic," added Scully about tonight's opponents.

"We know that we'll have to perform really well against them if we're going to get the three points – having said that, we are playing really well at the moment.

"It's very important that we get the three points against them as it would put us that bit closer to Drogheda United and St Pat's. It's a very important game for us."

Waterford boss Gareth Cronin has a few injury worries ahead of the game with Alan Mulcahy out due to an ankle ligament problem while Shane Harte has a groin injury. Daryl Kavanagh is doubtful with a stomach bug.

"Last Friday’s was the best performance of the season. I thought from the very first minute to the end we looked very very organised," said Cronin about the Blues' victory over St Pat's.

"There was a great shape about us and I think we thoroughly deserved the three points. People will say Pat’s had possession but possession doesn’t mean anything at the end of the day.

He added: "Rovers have been improving with every game – Pat Scully has done an excellent job and we will take nothing for granted. Last Friday’s result is gone and we now have to concentrate on the next game. We will try to build on the good work and effort the lads have been putting in and get something from the game."