Previews

Premier Division

Finn Harps v Sligo Rovers (7.30)

An Inspired Sligo performance at the Showgrounds last Saturday proved crucial in keeping their survival hopes alive, but unfortunately for them, the three troubled teams just above also took full points.

A win here would move them into ninth and away from the play-off spot, temporarily at least, but manager Nicky Reid is not expecting any favours from the local rivals. "We want nothing less that the three points," he says, "but these derby's are always going to be close."

Reid will have Wesley Charles back from suspension although Damien Kennedy suffered an ankle injury over the weekend and is unlikely to start.

Harps still have their eyes on third place, however faintly, even if they went down to FAI Cup opponents Bray over the weekend.

"I know the players are thinking more about the cup final at this stage," says McGeever. "There has been so much happening in the last few weeks that we want to concentrate now on getting the best panel available."

Harps will again be without defender Pascal Vaudequin and regular goalkeeper Brian McKenna continues to struggle with a shoulder injury.

Last two seasons: 1997/98: Sligo 2 Harps 2, Harps 1 Sligo 1, Sligo 0 Harps 2; 98/99: Sligo 1 Harps 1, Sligo 2 Harps 0.

Recent league form: Harps: LLLWL; Sligo: LWLLW

Leading scorers: Harps: Mulligan (10); Sligo: Hallows (eight).

Betting: Home: 11/8; Draw: 2/1; Away: 7/4.

Referee: G Perry (Dublin).

Betting courtesy of Paddy Power

First Division

Galway Utd v St Francis (7.45)

Galway have a great opportunity to jump into second spot and improve their promotion prospects ahead of Cobh Ramblers after the Cork side suffered a late equaliser at the hands of Limerick last Saturday. St Francis remain in the doldrums after yet another defeat by Home Farm/Everton over the weekend and they remain fixed at the bottom with only two wins all season.