Setanta newcomers face Drogheda

Drogheda United open their Setanta Sports Cup campaign against tournament newcomers Cliftonville at United Park tonight, kick-off 8.05pm.

United boss Paul Doolin has a few injury problems with long-term absentees Declan O’Brien and Shane Barrett joined on the sidelines by keeper Dan Connor, Jason Gavin, who has a medial knee injury, and Shaun Maher who is suffering from tendonitis.

But, despite the injuries, Doolin is looking forward to what he says will be a challenging game.

"We're definitely looking forward to it," said Doolin.

"We haven’t had many games this pre-season so it’ll be good for the lads.

"Cliftonville look a decent side; we saw them recently and they played some nice football. You can tell they’re hungry. But so are we. We want to be the first side to win this trophy three times in a row."

With Guy Bates and Aidan O’Keeffe back from injury, Doolin will have plenty of options, though new signing Ibrahima Thiam will not be available due to international clearance.

Cliftonville are likely to be without Shea Campbell and Stephen O'Neill for the Setanta opener and Reds boss Eddie Patterson is wary of the strength of tonight's opposition.

"Drogheda are a quality side who have won this competition for the last two years and we don't want to be embarrassed," said Patterson.

"I have to make a decision on whether to use fringe players in the game."