National League

Neither side is likely to be at full strength for this evening's game, brought forward a day to avoid a clash with tomorrow evening's televised match between St Patrick's and Derry at Richmond Park. But Shelbourne have, predictably enough, the more attractive options within their squad as they look for the win that would send them to the top of the league again.

Stephen Geoghegan is likely to miss out again with a groin strain, while Dessie Baker who lasted just 10 minutes of Sunday's replay before his ankle gave way, will probably be an onlooker too. Mark Rutherford, however, should play despite suffering a knock to his calf at the weekend.

Alfie Hale, meanwhile, rates Kevin Kelly as highly doubtful for the game due to a combination of hamstring and hernia problems that have dogged him for many weeks now. The only other man at the club to get three league goals this season, Richie Hale, is fit again after recovering from a groin strain but will probably have to settle for a place on the bench.

The visiting side's recent improvement and their containment of a much improved Bohemians side last Saturday should make this a more interesting fixture than a glance at the league table would suggest, but anything less than a victory for the Dubliners would be a severe blow.

Last two seasons: 1996/97: Did not meet; 97/98: Shelbourne 2 Kilkenny 1, Kilkenny 1 Shelbourne 3.

Last five league outings: Shelbourne: DWDLW; Kilkenny: LLDWD.

Top scorers: Shelbourne: S Geoghegan (12), Scully (10); Kilkenny: Kelly and Hale (three each).

Betting: Home 1 to 6, Draw 9 to 2, Kilkenny 12 to 1.