2 days ago
A final repeat and a tasty Dublin derby in Inchicore – this weekend's FAI Cup third round previews
(Ryan McBride Brandywell, 8pm)
Team news: Derry have a full squad to choose from, bar Cameron Dummigan who's still making progress in his rehab. United hope to recall Paul Doyle but Elicha Ahui, Steve Zishim Bawa and Scott Brady remain absent.
Talking point: Derry boss Tiernan Lynch said this week he expects a tight battle along the lines of their disappointing 0-0 draw at home to Cork last week. Bar that 3-0 loss in Derry in June, Drogheda have been solid away from home, where they give up few chances, and City will need to work harder than they have done. Just one goal scored in four league games is a real concern. This one could go all the way to penalties but Derry could knock out the holders and gain revenge for last year's final defeat.
Odds: Derry 1/2, Drogheda 9/2, draw 13/5
Verdict: Derry in extra-time
SUNDAY
ST PATRICK'S ATHLETIC v SHELBOURNE
(Richmond Park, 5pm)
Team news: Pat's are missing Romal Palmer, Seán Hoare, Aidan Keena, Zack Elbouzedi and Anto Breslin. Shels carry on without Seán Boyd, Conor Kearns and Jack Henry-Francis.
Talking point: This is a massive tie for both clubs in terms of European aspirations for next season, especially as the FAI Cup winners now enter the Europa League with all those benefits. It's been even in their league meetings (a win for each and a draw).
The Saints showed in Istanbul that their squad players can deliver, and while Shels have options too, that bench can get Pat's over the line, maybe in extra-time or on penalties.
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Ref: Paul McLaughlin
Odds: Pat's 10/11, Shels 5/2, draw 11/5
Verdict: Pat's in extra-time
SHAMROCK ROVERS v LONGFORD TOWN
(Tallaght Stadium, 7pm)
Team news: Rovers assess their squad after Thursday's European exertions, but there is still no place for the exiled Jack Byrne. However, Stephen Bradley can rotate with ease. Eric Yoro is the main concern for Longford.
Talking point: While Rovers have been thriving in Europe, it's been a rough summer for Longford. Last week's win over Treaty United was a rare success in the league but while that 2-0 win and clean sheet did halt the flood of goals conceded, Longford just can't compete with the squad strength of the Hoops.
