Dundalk will look to extend their lead at the top of the Premier Division to seven points this evening, when they welcome a struggling UCD side to Oriel Park.
UCD, however, have received a boost under new manager Maciej Tarnogrodzki, having taken the reins from the departed Collie O’Neill.
The Polish native oversaw a significant reaction in UCD’s 3-1 victory in the third round of the FAI Cup on Friday night. Harry Kenny, the St. Pat’s manager, resigned in the aftermath of the defeat.
Yousef Mahdy’s opener, and a brace from Liam Kerrigan, did something to ease the pain of a 10-1 league defeat to Bohemians last week.
The two sides will not have much time to digest whatever the outcome is tonight, with a return league fixture on Friday night in Belfield. The games will have a significant impact on both teams league prospects.
If, as may be anticipated, Dundalk were to secure six points in their two games with UCD, it would give them some real breathing space as they enter the final stretch of the campaign.
UCD though, must take some points to avoid losing touch with Finn Harps and Waterford United to a lesser extent, at the other end of the table.
Dane Massey will hope to feature for Dundalk, as will Robbie Benson. Cameron Dummigan though, is still out with an ankle injury.
Evan Osam, Josh Collins, Sean McDonald and Paul Doyle are on the injury list for UCD.