Getting there has been hard work. Staying top of the Premier Division table should prove even more trying for Drogheda United as they go into their first defence of their new-found leadership against Bohemians at Dalymount Park tonight.

A tempestuous win over erstwhile leaders Shelbourne - who haven't played a league game since - followed by three further wins, encapsulating 11 goals and none conceded, has elevated Drogheda to within sight of a first championship but manager Paul Doolin is guarded about the future. "We're not getting carried away. It's a different kettle of fish now we are top. There are 13 games to go," he said cautiously.

But he conceded Drogheda are well placed. "All the ingredients are there," he said. "We are getting results, home and away, scoring goals, defending well."

Doolin is set to name an unchanged side from last week's 3-0 win over Shamrock Rovers.

If only things were running as smoothly for their opponents.

Applications for the vacant manager's post at Bohemians closed last Friday and secretary Gerry Cuffe said yesterday that 22 curriculum vitae are under consideration with an announcement up to a fortnight away.

Sent off in their 0-0 draw in Derry last week, Ken Oman is suspended tonight. Fellow defender Damien Lynch (hamstring) is also out, while attackers Barry Ryan and Stephen Ward are doubts with strains.

Gareth Cooney has been recalled from his loan at Kilkenny City, while 17-year-olds Robert Duggan and David Bracken are elevated to the first-team squad.

Caretaker manager Gary Howlett is tempted to start Dominic Foley up front after he did well when coming on as a substitute in Derry.