Rovers on the double

Bohemians v Cork City

As good an opportunity as Bohs are going to have of defeating Cork City this season, as the Gypsys defend the last unbeaten home record in the Premier Division. Both sides have been misfiring in the league, although the hosts will take heart from their epic efforts in midweek. With Royboy history now and Denis Behan injured the visitors turn to the brittle John O'Flynn for goals and Leon McSweeney should get another opportunity to establish his credentials. Mick Devine's suspension is countered by the return of Sean Kelly. The Bohs faithful will be eager to get a glimpse of new signing Stephen McDonnell at some point. With both sides in suspect form it's best to pass this over for betting purposes.

Stan James Prices
11/8 Bohs
2/1 Draw
7/4 Cork



Derry City v Longford Town

With three wins on the bounce under their jockstraps Longford will be getting used to a new feeling - confidence; Derry's problems in front of goal continue to hinder their progress - just one goal in their last five outings has forced Robbo into action. Sean Hargan is suspended while his red mist evaporates, but Killian Brennan, Mark Farren and the pivotal Barry Molloy return from injury. Sean Kelly returns to add his gifts to Alan Matthew's model-thin squad. Backing the draw at 13/5 may be the best way to capitalize on Derry's modesty in front of the goals.


Stan James Prices
8/15 Derry
5/2 Draw
9/2 Longford



Drogheda United v St. Patrick's Athletic

The Drogs have not beaten Pats over 90 minutes this season; in truth they don't need to this time either. A safe draw will do the leaders who will have Graham Gartland and Guy Bates available. Despite rumours to the contrary Joe Ndo it seems has not been sacked by the Saints and he's expected to play a part here following an appearance for the U21's earlier in the week. The Saints' profligacy (just 10 points from the last 27) has been met with Drogs' consistency ( 23/27) and the onus is squarely on Johnny Mc's side in this crucial title clash. Anything over 3/1 is value against St Pats.


Stan James Prices
EVS Drogheda
2/1 Draw
5/2 Pats



UCD v Galway United

New signing Paul Murphy is available for the home side, with Shane McFaul and Paul Crowley returning from suspension. The visitors welcome the return of Stephen O'Flynn as they attempt to extricate themselves from the clinging soil of the relegation zone. Longford's new-found zeal must be causing Tony Cousins some sleepless nights and how he would love Terryland Park to be zapped by a meteorite forcing the Galwegians to play their remaining fixtures away from home. But I digress. Despite what looks like a poor run of form on paper, the Students have pushed Pats and Rovers to their limits, either side of a snatched victory over Bohs. Looks a draw, though I'm not playing at the prices.


Stan James Prices
11/10 UCD
2/1 Draw
9/4 Galway


Waterford United v Shamrock Rovers

There is merit in Pat Scully's comments about his side's recent efforts, although the manager's attempts at Matt Talbotism seem a little contrived. His squad are almost at full-strength, only Aidan Price remains absent. The Blues ended a dismal run of four consecutive defeats thanks to the generosity of Galway United's home form last week, but the Hoops will be afforded no time to mope following their semi-final defeat in midweek. I expect Rovers to return to winning ways, the generally available 6/5 is a decent price.


Stan James Prices
9/4 Waterford
9/4 Draw
EVS Shamrock Rovers



Sligo Rovers v Bray Wanderers

Sligo are playing some sweet football with Paul Cook at the helm, and picking up points to boot. Matt Gordon and James Meredith have still to figure for the Bit O'Red following their recent moves, while Matt Judge's ankle is a focus of concern. The home side will be feeling unbeatable right now, and that's just the way Bray like 'em. Following his side's abject effort against Longford Town a fortnight ago, Eddie G squeezed a heroic performance from Wanderers when the Drogs came to the Seagull's nest last weekend. Paul Dunphy is a long-term absentee for the visitors. BetChronicle go 10/11 a Sligo win - it's a good bet.


Stan James Prices
8/13 Sligo Rovers
12/5 Draw
4/1 Bray