ST PATRICK’S Athletic received a boost ahead of their trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina for Thursday’s Europa League game with Siroki Brijeg when they were given a bye into the quarter-finals of the FAI Ford Cup.
Monaghan United knocked out holders Sligo Rovers in the last round but, due to their subsequent withdrawal from the league, just 15 clubs entered last night’s third round draw. According to the competition’s rules, Sligo could not be reinstated.
Record 24-times winners Shamrock Rovers, who have not won the competition now in 25 years, will meet Cork City in what was the pick of the ties drawn, with UCD at home to Derry City the only other all-Premier Division clash.
The three non-league sides still in the competition, however, drew Premier Division opposition.
Cherry Orchard, who provided the shock of the last round when beating then First Division leaders Longford Town, were drawn away to last year’s beaten finalists Shelbourne. Malahide United will be happy with a home draw against Dundalk, while Cork side Avondale United must travel to Dalymount Park to face Bohemians.
Elsewhere, Sligo Rovers striker Danny North has signed a new contract that will keep him at the Showgrounds until the end of the 2013 season.
The former St Patrick’s Athletic player has scored 17 goals – 15 of them in the league – since his arrival at the Showgrounds. The club yesterday unveiled a new stand that will seat 1,400 people.
FAI CUP: Third Round Draw: Waterford United v Mervue United; Malahide United v Dundalk; Shamrock Rovers v Cork City; Bohemians v Avondale United; Drogheda United v Wexford Youths; UCD v Derry City; Shelbourne v Cherry Orchard. Bye – St Patrick's Athletic. (Ties to be played week ending August 26th)
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