Collins cautious

Given their remarkable record in the tournament Shamrock Rovers may feel they're overdue another FAI Cup victory but around Inchicore they've grown used to being patient when it comes to the competition and 42 years after St Patrick's Athletic last won this trophy manager Eamonn Collins isn't so foolish as to promise an end to the run.

"I've been supporting the club since I was two or three and you don't need to tell me or anybody else here how long it is but I'm not going to go making any predictions," he says. "Hopefully we'll win it again in my lifetime and if it's this year then nobody will be happier about it than me."

The team's first hurdle could, of course, have been easier. Shamrock Rovers have looked a much-improved side this season, particularly in their European games which Collins watched with interest.

"I was very impressed with them, they're a very solid crew and Liam (Buckley) has brought them a long way. Obviously we could have had an easier tie at this stage of the competition but then these are the sort of occasions that make the cup special to everyone and we'll enjoy it."

Buckley, whose team have won one and drawn the other of their two meetings with their landlords so far this seasons, works off an unchanged squad for the game with only former St Patrick's defender Keith Doyle missing due to a fractured cheek bone. For the Saints Paul Osam's fitness is the main worry with Collins hoping to have the team's inspirational midfielder back after last weekend's disappointing 4-2 defeat in Waterford.

"We'll see how he is but if he's ready there's no question about whether he'll play," Collins said.