Both teams are in excellent form at the moment and go into this game with plenty to play for. Bray are looking to move within three points of the top of the table and Shelbourne are aiming to extend their advantage over Bohemians and the rest of the pack.

Having strengthened his squad considerably since the summer, Pat Devlin has reaped the benefits in recent weeks as Wanderers have hammered out string of good results. Friday's 2-2 draw at Galway United was no exception, with midfielder Eddie Gormley proving his return to fitness with two second half goals after coming on for Mick Doohan.

That should be enough to ensure that the former St Patrick's Athletic midfielder starts this evening, although there will be increased competition for places if Wesley Charles's move from Sligo Rovers is completed in time for him to take part.

Shelbourne are still without Stephen Geoghegan who is carrying an ankle injury, but Owen Heary appears to have come through Friday's 3-1 victory over St Patrick's without any ill effects. Pat Fenlon, whose calf muscle is giving cause for concern, faces a fitness test while Jim Crawford is very doubtful after taking a bad knock to the head on Friday night.

All of which may be academic, of course, if the match officials decide at lunchtime today that the pitch is unplayable,

Last two seasons - 1999/00: Did not meet. 2000/01: Shelbourne 0 Bray Wanderers 1.

Recent league form - Bray: WDDWD. Shelbourne: DWDDW.

Leading scorers: Bray: Byrne (5). Shelbourne: Foran (6).

Referee: P Whelan (Dublin).