Bohemians v Shamrock Rovers: Having embarrassed Bohemians by dumping them out of the FAI Cup on their own patch last season, Pat Scully could be forgiven for getting ahead of himself tonight. That, however, is not his form.
Following a season spent travelling the length and breath of Ireland, his side are back plying their trade in the top flight and, consequently, Dublin's fiercest derby rears its head and breathes once more.
That cup replay triumph signalled the end of Gareth Farrelly's Phibsboro reign and Scully admits the night was a particular high-point during a trying but successful season.
Tonight, though, his young squad tackle Seán Connor's men on level terms. No divisional disadvantage, no longer an unknown quantity and, as Scully would see it, no excuses.
His side has made a steady start to the season and, indeed, are one of just three unbeaten teams in the division. Still, he demands immediate improvement.
"This is a real occasion for us to signal our return to the Premier Division," he says. "We haven't played anywhere near as well as we can, but we've still won games. We've been apprehensive, taken time to adapt but once we play to our potential we'll be fine. Most of our players played in those cup games last year and they'll know what this is all about and what's required."
Connor, too, has yet to see the best of his squad. A plethora of new arrivals has meant time adjusting but Friday's 1-0 win away at Waterford has, he hopes, kick-started the campaign.
Having joined from Sligo last year, Connor has yet to sample this derby atmosphere but while relishing the prospect, he refuses to dwell on its significance.
"This is just one game out of a 33-game programme so I can't get too carried away. But I understand the fans' position. The onus is on us to win so I've asked the lads to play the game, not the occasion."
Connor is without captain Kevin Hunt and Owen Heary, both suspended. Glen Crowe will skipper the side while Liam Burns (concussion) is sidelined. Rovers, too, are without their captain Aidan Price (groin). Danny O'Connor (ankle), Andy Myler (back) and Paul Shiels (abdominal) are also out.
