SETANTA SPORTS CUP: TWICE A winner of the competition during his spell at Drogheda United, Bohemians defender Brian Shelley is relishing the opening match of this year's Setanta Sports Cup against Glentoran at The Oval this afternoon.

It’s the League of Ireland champions’ first excursion into the cross-border trophy and given their dominance down South, it’s very much a competition they’re eager to do well in. “We’re looking forward to it, there’s over 500 fans travelling up so it’s going to be a good occasion, it’s going to be a good distraction,” said Shelley.

It’s also a distraction manager Pat Fenlon welcomes as he pits his wits against Alan McDonald’s Irish League champions and last season’s beaten Setanta Cup finalists. “I always liked the Setanta Cup and the change it brings from what we’re used to week in, week out,” said Fenlon, who added his players will enjoy the atmosphere of playing at The Oval, something he knows well from his time as a player with the Belfast side’s bitter rivals Linfield.

While Bohemians will be without injured defenders Mark Rossiter (shoulder) and Owen Heary (hamstring), McDonald is set to give a debut to 86-times capped Northern Ireland international Keith Gillespie, who signed a one-year deal with Glentoran last week.

In this evening’s other tie, holders Cork City are at full strength when they host Cliftonville at Turner’s Cross. Though Cork beat them twice in last year’s competition, manager Paul Doolin is wary Cliftonville will be armed with the knowledge of the disruption, and player loss, at City this season and travel with confidence.

The Solitude club recently sold midfielder Barry Johnston to Shamrock Rovers while defender Davy McAlinden joined Lisburn Distillery during the week. Manager Eddie Patterson is also without Conor Downey, Mark Patterson, Liam Fleming and Kieran O’Connor.

Following their exit from the Europa League against Steaua Bucharest on Thursday, St Patrick’s Athletic return to league action when they face Drogheda United at Richmond Park tomorrow evening. St Patrick’s hope to be at full strength while Drogheda are without suspended midfielders Paul Shiels and Jamie Duffy.