Draw for EA Sports Cup semi-final made

And then there were four. The draw for the semi-final of the EA Sports Cup was made today. A Dublin derby in Tallaght and a trip to the west for the champions awaits League of Ireland fans.

Shamrock Rovers and St Patrick’s Athletic have met twice already in the league and face off against each other in the FAI cup this weekend. Neither of the teams are likely to use the FAI cup fixture in Richmond Park as a dress rehearsal for the EA Cup, but come August, they might see the EA Sports Cup as an early (or indeed their only) opportunity to get some silverware in the cabinet.

In the other semi-final, Galway United have been drawn at home to current holders, Dundalk FC. Dundalk won the EA Cup after a thrilling final against Shamrock Rovers last season. The talent in their squad, and the competitiveness Stephen Kenny has instilled in them, means they will be aspiring to be finalists again this year. For the Tribesmen, this cup could be a prime way to mark a triumphant season in which they returned to the Premier Division.

The draw is as follows:

Shamrock Rovers V St Patricks Athletic

Galway United v Dundalk FC

The matches will be played on Monday, August 3, and will be played to a finish on the night with provision for extra-time and penalties if required. The final is scheduled for September.