FAI Cup Previews

Derry City v Mervue United - Brandywell, 7.45

Despite Derry's terrific home form this season, Junior side Mervue United are relishing their visit to the Brandywell.

"People may say we've got the worst draw possible, but I don't see it that way," said Mervue manager Stephen Lally, a cup winner with Galway United back in 1991. "Before we played Ballymun in the last round, I said to the lads that if we got through we could end up in the Brandywell. You won't get a bigger draw than Derry away. Our only concern is having to go up there on a Thursday night. If it had been the weekend more of our fans could have travelled."

Mervue have Ex-Galway United pair Dave Goldbey and Luther Watson in their side along with Shamie Rabbitt who also has National League experience. However, Lally is without veteran Ollie Neary who has gone to Australia while his left-sided midfielder Benny Lawless is out with a knee injury.

Ominously, Derry are at full strength with manger Kevin Mahon, conscious of Derry's only shock home defeat to non-league opposition 10 years ago when losing 2-1 to Ashtown Villa, preaching against complacency.

Referee: P Deering (Sligo)

Betting: Home: 1/6; Draw: 6/1; Away: 12/1.

Dundalk v Galway United - Oriel Park, 7.45

Dundalk continue to be victims of their own indiscipline as Stephen McGuinness starts a three-match suspension.

Recent signing Garry Haylock is ineligible while Liam Dunne is out with an ankle injury. Aaron Callaghan replaces McGuinness in defence while Martin Reilly will partner Alex Nesovic in attack.

"I don't see the cup as anything other than the next game," said Dundalk manager Martin Murray. "We've struggled to get results and this is another opportunity to put that right and build on it."

With just one win now in eleven games, Murray admits to feeling the mounting pressure. "There is pressure always there," said Murray. "I'm not naive enough not to think that there are people who are looking for somebody to blame and managers tend to carry the can. I'm mindful of that, but it's not something that's affecting me.

"We haven't had any breaks in recent weeks. We've got to keep our heads down and keep working." Galway are without suspended Darragh Sheridan while law student Alan Murphy is unavailable due to exams. Seβn Malee, Aidan Forde, Mike Keane, Derek O'Brien and Michael Harty come into the squad.

Referee: J McDermott (Dublin)

Betting: Home: 4/5; Draw: 9/4; Away: 11/4

Workmens Dunleary v Shelbourne - Carlisle Grounds, 7.45

The unlikeliest of all shocks as the 250 to 1 rank outsiders take on the second-favourites.

"All we can do is get out there and give our best and enjoy the occasion," says Workmens Dunleary manager, Michael Brown.

"Nobody will expect us to win so that puts a little bit of pressure on Shelbourne.

"All I want is for us to perform to our capability. That's all I can ask for.

"I hope it's a good game. Like Shels, we regard ourselves as a footballing side. Though we don't have the quality they have.

"It's 90 minutes and you never know what might happen. Whatever does, we'll enjoy it."

Leinster Senior League Division One side Workmens are without striker James Byrne who is cup-tied while left back Wayne Molloy is a doubtful starter due to a hand injury.

Shelbourne expect to be unchanged with Baker brothers Richie (groin) and Dessie (knee) still out with injuries. Davy Byrne, fully recovered from a knee injury may again have to be content with a seat on the bench.

Referee: D McKeon (Dublin)

Betting: Home: 10/1; Draw: 9/2; Away: 1/6.