Mervue face challenge of FAI Cup holders

Cup holders Sporting Fingal take on First Division strugglers Mervue United in tonight’s FAI Ford Cup third round clash at Morton Stadium, kick-off 7.45pm.

Gary O’Neill, whose late goal secured a 2-1 victory over Sligo Rovers in last November’s final, is ruled out with a hamstring injury.

John Frost (hamstring) and Stephen Paisley (chest) are also missing through injury, while Shane McFaul is doubtful as he is struggling with a calf problem.

Fingal manager Liam Buckley is glad to be starting the quest for more Cup glory with a home draw.

“All any manager wants is a home tie and we’re excited about embarking on, hopefully, another decent run,” said Buckley.

“The FAI Ford Cup competition has been integral to the strides we’ve made – we reached the quarter-finals in our first year, 2008 – and we’re very eager to keep hold of our title.”

He added: “I know from our meetings with Mervue last season how tough they can make it for opposition teams and we’ll have a challenge on our hands this evening to get past this first hurdle.

“Getting the win over Galway last weekend was important in the context of keeping in the mix. I’m satisfied that we’re heading towards attaining the standard I know we can.”