Rovers hoping to maintain table-top position

Shamrock Rovers will be hoping to stay clear at the top of the table as they face a tricky away trip against UCD at the UCD Bowl tonight, kick-off 7.45pm.

The champions come into the game on the back of a facile FAI Cup win against Athlone and a well-earned league victory over rivals Bohemians.

And the Hoops will be confident of picking up another three points here as they travel with a strong squad to Belfield.

Enda Stevens is the only player missing for Rovers as the left back is serving a suspension.

The Students ended a run of four league defeats with an FAI Ford Cup win over Cherry Orchard last week.

Robbie Creevy returns to bolster the UCD squad but Tomas Boyle remains a doubt with a hamstring problem.

David O'Connor and Graham Rusk are also back in contention to feature for College.

UCD manager Martin Russell said: "We won’t be underestimating the challenge facing us from Shamrock Rovers, who have an even better squad than last season.

“It’s a challenge for all our players and a great platform from which we can build in terms of experience for our young side.

“All those involved are relishing the opportunity to play and hopefully beat the league leaders."