Galway United v Longford Town (7.45)
Galway boss Don O'Riordan looks set to make just one change to the side that drew at Santry last weekend. As usual the main problems are in central defence where Billy Clery's suspension is the latest in a long succession of blows. His absence is, however, offset by the return from suspension of Tom Silke and a straight swap seems the most likely approach for the home side's manager.
Longford's injury problems, meanwhile, have a familiar ring about them with Wesley Byrne troubled again by a groin strain and long term injuries Paul Perth and Niall Byrne still out of action. To make matters worse, though, Stuart Holt is unavailable because of university exams and Keith O'Connor has pulled a muscle in his knee.
Last two seasons: 1999/00: Did not meet; 00/01: Longford 2 United 2.
Recent league form: United: LWDLD; Longford: WWWDL.
Leading scorers: United: Lavine (nine); Longford: Kelly (five), O'Connor (four).
Betting: Home: 13/8, Draw: 9/4, Away: 11/8.
Referee: A O'Regan (Cork).
Shelbourne v UCD
Having beaten Bohemians last week it's hard to see Dermot Keely meddling with Shelbourne's starting line-up, especially as his only injury worry of note is Avery John who has a medial ligament strain.
That will almost certainly mean that Declan Geoghegan starts at left back with Mark Hutchison and James Keddy battling for a start on the left side of midfield. Up front Richie Foran might be partnered by Stephen Geoghegan or, more likely, Dessie Baker again.
Having seen his side play well over the past few weeks without managing to win any games, Martin Moran admits that he'd happily settle for points and poor displays, but away to the champions this evening without John Martin (ligaments), Ciaran Martyn (knee) and possibly Mick O'Byrne (hamstring), he'd probably settle for anything just now.
Last two seasons: 1999/00: Shelbourne 0 UCD 0, UCD 0 Shelbourne 2, Shelbourne 2 UCD 1; 00/01: UCD 0 Shelbourne 1.
Recent league form: Shelbourne: DWLWW; UCD: DLLDD.
Leading scorers: Shelbourne: Foran (eight); UCD: McDonnell (four).
Betting: Home: 1/2, Draw: 5/2, Away: 5/1.
Referee: R O'Hanlon (Waterford).
Betting courtesy of Paddy Power
