A full slate of fixtures in week 2 of the SSE Airtricity League. Here's what we're looking out for most;
1) Can Dundalk bounce back?
There's no doubting the biggest surprise of week one was Dundalk losing heavily to local rivals Drogheda United and tonight they play their first home league game of the season against Limerick. Dundalk's only other competitive game in Oriel park this year saw them lose to Coleraine in the Setanta Cup but the Lilywhites showed signs of improvement by overcoming that deficit in the 2nd leg on Monday. Dundalk have had injury problems at the back but if they lose this evening, that excuse won't be enough.
2) Can Bohemians continue their excellent form?
Ok so "excellent form" might be a bit much this early in the season but Bohs have 2 3-0 wins over UCD in league and cup action in 4 days is a very bright start for Owen Heary's men. They host Drogheda tonight with both sides full of confidence and scoring goals. If either can mange a win, they'll be giving themselves the perfect base to make a run at the top 6.
3) How will St Pats first home game as Champions go?
Fixture compilers were a little harsh on St Pats making them wait to play their first game as Champions until after a tough trip to Cork last week. They should find tonight a little easier as they host that UCD so comprehensively beaten by Bohs (twice) last week. UCD seem to be in a state of flux and new manager and new recruits may take a bit of time to bed in. Pats, with former UCD manager Martin Russell in the coaching team, are unlikely to feel too charitable. They scored 13 times in 4 games against UCD last season.
4) Will Derry City try and win this week?
Last week Roddy Collins admitted he sent his side out to contain Shamrock Rovers and to keep it scoreless as long as possible. He's in front of the TV cameras again this week but this time at home to Cork City. While no one expects Derry to go gung-ho into the game, they'll surely start the league's top striker, Rory Patterson, this week? Cork City seemed happy with their point last week and will be hoping for another positive performance to keep the huge interests level up on Leeside. The game is live on RTE 2 on Sunday afternoon.
5) Will either Rovers slip up away to the relegation candidates?
Sligo Rovers and Shamrock Rovers are both expecting to challenge for the league title this season. If they've to have any chance they can't be losing too many points to the likes of Bray Wanderers and Athlone Town. Bray's new manager Alan Mathews would be delighted with a repeat of last week's 0-0 at home to Sligo. For Athlone, it's their first home game in the Premier Division since 1996 so there's sure to be a great atmosphere at the game for the visit of Shamrock Rovers. They pushed Sligo Rovers hard last week and Mick Cooke will be looking for a repeat of that performance.
Whatever happens, enjoy the games!
