TALK OF being gung-ho in the build-up to a match is usually an approach most managers avoid, but UCD boss Pete Mahon believes his team simply have to abandon a certain amount of caution at this stage of the season in their bid to avoid relegation.
A four-point gap separates UCD from fourth-bottom Finn Harps and safety. And with Paul Hegarty's Donegalmen at runaway leaders Bohemians tonight, College beating Sligo Rovers at the UCD Bowl will more than likely narrow that margin. Apart from injured winger Shane Fitzgerald, UCD, who've lost their last three games, are at full strength. Striker Matthew Judge is fully fit following a fractured cheekbone and returns for Sligo who also have right-back Seamus Coleman and midfielder Romuald Boco returning from international duty.
Double-chasing Bohemians wait on midfielder Mark Rossiter (groin) as they look to stretch their 16-point lead at the top of the table at Dalymount Park. Lithuanian striker, Mindaugas Kalonas, is set to return having sat out last week's cup win over Wayside Celtic following his return from international duty.
Injury continues to sideline Finn Harps' striker Conor Gethins while midfielder Neill McCafferty is suspended. Defender Stuart Malcolm (groin) and midfielder Davy Byrne (thigh) remain serious doubts for the game while Jonathan Minnock (groin) and Stephen Parkhouse (ankle) face fitness tests.
Shamrock Rovers are without the suspended Danny O'Connor, Corey Treacy and Eoin Doyle for the trip to Galway while captain Aidan Price (shoulder) and John Martin (hip) remain out injured.
Second-placed St Patrick's Athletic travel to face Bray Wanderers without the suspended Joe O'Cearuill and Derek O'Brien while Jamie Ewings is likely to return in goal for champions Drogheda United as they continue their quest to get back in contention to qualify for Europe next season against Derry City at the Brandywell.
