Collins confident ahead of playoff first leg

Monaghan United entertain Galway United in tonight’s Airtricity League promotion/relegation play-off first leg at Gortakeegan, kick-off 7.45pm.

The First Division side are unusually favourites to win the two-legged affair considering Galway only won one league game all season, while Monaghan had a strong finish to the season and only just missed out on automatic promotion.

Monaghan boss Roddy Collins has a strong squad to choose from, however, Keith Quinn is ruled out through suspension after getting a red card on Friday night.

John Reilly is also ruled out through suspension, while Conor McMahon, Aidan Collins, Sean Brennan and Ryan Brennan are all carrying injuries.

Collins said: “My plan starting out at the beginning of the season was getting at least into the play-offs, this we have achieved.

“We had a great run into the end of the season winning five out of the last six.

“We will need to replicate our performance in Athlone (winning 5-0) in both these legs against Galway United.

“Unfortunately, that victory came at a cost to us injury and suspension wise. But I still believe that we have the talent and strength in depth.”

Galway travel to Monaghan without suspended duo Sean Kelly and Rory

Gartlan, while Johnny Keane (knee) and Victor Collins (achilles tendon) remain out injured.

And there are doubts over the fitness of Gary Kelly (ankle), Mikey Gilmore (foot), John Egan (knee) and Eric Holland (hamstring).

Galway boss John Brennan said: "It's going to be a very hard game. Monaghan are a good side. We have got to get ourselves in order. It's a cup final, anything can happen.