Bohemians v Derry City (Dalymount Park, 7.45)

Stephen Caffrey will drop back into Bohemians' central defence in the absence of Shaun Maher, who continues his trials with clubs in England.

Fergal Harkin slots into central midfield alongside captain Kevin Hunt as Bohemians look for a winning start in defence of their title. Trevor Molloy joins Glen Crowe up front.

Derry have problems with defender Joe Harkin (knee), out for six weeks, while summer signing Pβdraig Moran, who's yet to play for his new club, has a hamstring strain so in his absence Jamie Hughes partners Liam Coyle in attack.

Tommy McCallion, a brother of full-back Eddie, comes into midfield.

Last season: Derry City 1 Bohemians 0; Bohemians 1 Derry City 1; Derry City 0 Bohemians 2.

Referee: A. O'Regan (Cork).

Betting: Home: 4/6, Draw: 9/4, Away: 4/1

St Patrick's v Galway United (Richmond Park, 7.45)

"Belief in ourselves is all that matters," says St Patrick's Athletic manager Pat Dolan on the eve of the new season.

"It's been a very positive and progressive summer both on and off the field. Whether people tip us (for honours) or don't is irrelevant."

With Robbie Griffin, Seβn Mannion and Ciarβn Quinn suspended and Robbie McGuinness (knee) doubtful, new signing Darren O'Keeffe makes his debut in St Patrick's midfield.

Galway also give a debut to Adrian Carberry, signed yesterday from Athlone, while new boss Dave Connell remains undecided on signing Limerick's promising striker Anthony Tobin.

"That suits me grand," said Connell, on his side being a hot tip for relegation. "If I can use that underdogs tag to my advantage, like I did at Limerick, I'll be quiet happy.

"A good start is important for the club. It's vital for me and for the morale of the players we get something from tonight's game."

Colin Fortune starts on the left of midfield in the absence of Bobby Byrne (thigh) and Mike Quirke (suspended).

Last season: Galway United 1 St Patrick's Athletic 1; St Patrick's Athletic 3 Galway United 0; Galway United 2 St Patrick's Athletic 2.

Referee: H. Byrne (Dublin).

Betting: Home: 4/7, Draw: 5/2, Away: 4/1.