Waterford out to maintain form

National League: Pat Purcell's decision to turn down a move to Dublin City and sign for Waterford United instead appears to have been inspired, if the opening fortnight of the season is an omen.

"I'm delighted with the move. It's worked out really well for me so far," agrees the central defender and former Limerick FC captain, who Dublin City manager John Gill thought he was on the verge of signing the week before the season began.

"Football wise, I feel I've made the right decision to come to Waterford. In the end it was a tough decision for me to make," added Purcell ahead of the clubs clashing for the first time at the RSC tonight.

Waterford lie third in the table after a win over Drogheda and a rousing revival from 2-0 down to get a point at Bohemians last week. Injury and suspension-hit first division champions Dublin City have had their nightmare start of two defeats.

"New lads, like myself and Willie Bruton, have knitted in well and the team has gelled quickly," said Purcell. "Alan Reynolds is proving to be a very good young manager. It's hard to say how we will do in the long run, but there is a great team spirit.

"It's a big challenge for Alan and Paul McGrath and the only way you can answer the critics is with results."

Gill is likely to start Philip Hughes, available following suspension, to give his attack some much needed impetus. Defenders Tony O'Connor and Alan Keely remain sidelined with injuries.

Drogheda manager Paul Doolin, disappointed with two opening defeats despite his pre-season optimism, may make changes in midfield and up front for the trip to leaders Shelbourne.

Alan Reilly could be moved across into central midfield for the, so far, ineffective Barry Molloy, while Mark Rooney could start in attack alongside Declan O'Brien.

Shelbourne manager Pat Fenlon reports a clean bill of health ahead of the game with central defenders Kevin Doherty and Tony McCarthy and winger Wes Hoolahan all back from injury.

TONIGHT (7.45 unless stated): St Patrick's Athletic v Bohemians; Shelbourne v Drogheda United; Waterford United v Dublin City (7.30). First Division: Athlone Town v Kilkenny City; Bray Wanderers v Sligo Rovers; Finn Harps v UCD (8.0); Galway United v Limerick FC (7.30)