Shelbourne manager Damien Richardson has cited his side's mediocre performances in Dublin derbies last season as the reason for their failure to last the pace in the title race.
The championship favourites begin their derbies tonight, at one of the most feared venues of them all, in fine fettle after last week's demolition of an abject Drogheda United. Of 15 Dublin derbies last season, Shelbourne won just seven, dropping 21 points. In contrast, St Patrick's won the league in 1995/96 by winning eight and drawing the other four of their 12 games against Dublin opposition.
St Patrick's home form since has been erratic and was the reason they failed to register a serious challenge at any stage last season.
Their new-look side, with the emphasis on youth, and the visit of a talented Shelbourne team should contrive to provide the best game of the season to date before a large, expectant crowd.
St Patrick's have selection problems, however, with team skipper Eddie Gormley almost certainly out after being stretchered off in Ballybofey last week with ankle ligament trouble.
Pat Dolan's difficulties don't end there as both Thomas Morgan (shin) and Martin Reilly (ankle) are also struggling, while Trevor Croly may need a knee operation.
Paul Campbell and Paul Osam should shore up the midfield with Willie Burke coming in at right-back.
Shelbourne manager Damien Richardson hasn't ruled out starting Stephen Geoghegan, with the striker recovering from TB. Alan Gough is still possibly a week away from fitness after a thigh injury, and although Richardson has signed Irish youth team goalkeeper, Paul Whelan on a short-term basis, Stephen O'Brien should continue in goal tonight.
An additional facet to the game for spectators is a chance to see two of Ireland's best young strikers in action: the clever Trevor Molloy of St Patrick's and Shelbourne's pacey Dessie Baker.
Last season: Shelbourne 0 St Patrick's 1, St Patrick's 1 Shelbourne 1, Shelbourne 1 St Patrick's 1.
League Cup/League form: St Patrick's: WD/DWW; Shelbourne: WW/WDW.
Leading league scorer: St Patrick's: Molloy 2; Shelbourne: Scully 3.
Betting: Home 7/4, Draw 7/4, Away 7/4.
Referee: R O'Hanlon (Waterford).
First Division
First big test for the main promotion contenders as leaders Bray Wanderers, who've won their three games, meet Home Farm/Everton at the Carlisle Grounds.
Expected to be stronger, certainly than last season, the First Divison has flattered to deceive and, as yet, hasn't offered any proof of a rise in standard. Even at this early stage, Bray are looking head and shoulders above the opposition.
Bray have Pat O'Brien back from suspension while influential midfielder, Gareth Kelly, returns for Home Farm after missing last week's win over Longford with a calf strain.
Second placed Waterford United have both Sean Riordan and Alan Reynolds back from suspension as they entertain Limerick at the Regional Sports centre.
