Having turned in what coach Theo Dunne described as one of their best performances ever against Shamrock Rovers last weekend, the students travel to Cork this afternoon strengthened by the return of Clive Delaney and Ciaran Martyn from suspension.
But there are problems, too, with Robert McAuley (knee) and Glen Fitzpatrick (groin) doubtful. So Dunne will wait until close to the kick-off before confirming his starting line-up.
"We'll see how everybody is beforehand and then make up our minds," said Dunne, who could bring in his two youth internationals. But he admits that changing the 11 after last week's display is "a hard thing to do if you don't have to".
Dave Barry, meanwhile, must wait on top scorer Pat Morley (Achilles tendon) and Patsy Freyne, who picked up a dead leg during Sunday's draw with Bohemians, before sorting out his team. A couple of others are carrying minor knocks but are expected to be fit enough to start.
Last season: UCD 0 Cork 1, Cork 1 UCD 2, UCD 2 Cork 2.
Recent form: Cork: WWLWD; UCD: DDLWW.
Leading scorers: Cork: Morley (five), O'Brien (two); UCD: Lynch and Bennis (two apiece).
Betting: Home: 8/13, Draw: 12/5, Away: 4/1.
Referee: D O'Hanlon (Waterford).
