McMillan set to start for Pat's

St Patrick’s Athletic travel west for their league opener against Galway United at Terryland Park this evening (kick-off 7.45pm).

Saints new signing David McMillan will start up front as last season's top scorer Danny North is serving a suspension.

Also suspended are new signings Stephen Bradley and Paul Crowley, however, Daryl Kavanagh and Ian Bermingham should be fit to be included in the squad.

Ian Daly, 20, should also be available as long as international clearance arrives in time for the former Manchester City striker.

Saints boss Pete Mahon said: “We’re obviously looking forward to the start of the campaign. While we are looking forward to it we know we’ll be in for a difficult game down in Galway. It’s a match we are capable of winning but it’s very hard to win away from home in this league.

“We had good success last year with a win and a draw in Terryland and we’ll be looking to keep that going.”

United’s pre-season preparations were not helped by licensing issues but manager Sean Connor has brought in a bit of experience ahead of the season opener.

Bobby Ryan, Sean Kelly, Shaun Maher and Brian Cash have all signed for 2011 and Scottish goalkeeper Greg Fleming has also been added to the first team squad.

Enda Curran is struggling with a groin strain and Steve Feeney is also an injury concern, while Paul Sinnott serves a one-match ban.

Galway boss Connor said: "To be honest, preparations have been quite fractured, players have been brought in to the club up to Wednesday. We will find it hard to find our feet, but as long as we knuckle down we can make an impression. St Pat’s are a very good side, big strong guys, real quality. They are a top four side this season, no doubt."