FAI Cup Preview: Drogheda United's fears concerning the safety of Dundalk's new synthetic pitch at Oriel Park were allayed yesterday following a further inspection by Fifa referee Ian Stokes, who passed the surface playable for tonight's Louth derby.

"Our only concern was for the safety of the players," said Drogheda manager Paul Doolin. "The match is on now and there will be no more about the pitch."

Dundalk's relief at finally getting back to Oriel Park is palpable. "The place has been revitalised, said Dundalk manager Jim Gannon. "It should be a unique occasion. First of all, it's our return to Oriel Park, it's our first game on the new generation surface, it's a cup match and it's a local derby. To have all four aspects rolled into one should make it a very special night."

Ex-Drogheda defender John Flanagan is cup-tied for Dundalk who remain without regular goalkeeper Chris Bennion and midfielder Séamus McCabe, who are both injured. Striker Peter Hynes is Gannon's chief worry as he has been suffering with a tummy bug.

Graham Gartland should come back into Drogheda's defence as Jason Gavin - along with midfielder Keith Fahey - is cup-tied and Stuart Malcolm suspended. The match will be live on TG4.

Wayside Celtic manager Peter Lennon has praised the FAI ahead of the Leinster Senior League side's trip to Dalymount Park to face Bohemians.

The dating of the second and third rounds of the cup were altered this year to facilitate the non-league clubs after the National League's switch to a summer season had given their clubs an even greater advantage in recent seasons.

"The FAI take a lot of stick most of the time, but credit where credit's due," said Lennon. "They have staggered the competition more this season and that has given us a better chance."

Wayside go with much the same side as beat Bluebell United 2-1 last weekend as they remain without regulars Matt Britton, Stephen Martin (both ankle injuries) and George Webb (thigh).

Bohemians will give late fitness tests to Gareth Farrelly, Stephen Rice and Mark O'Brien as the former two have recovered more quickly than expected from ankle and shoulder injuries.

John Paul Kelly, who played for the Ireland under-19s in Bulgaria on Tuesday, is available again after a suspension, but James Keddy remains banned.

Twice winners of the cup as underdogs themselves, Bray will treat non-league Cherry Orchard with every respect when the Ballyfermot side visit the Carlisle Grounds. Kevin O'Brien (groin) is Bray's only injury concern.