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Shamrock Rovers -v- Sligo Rovers
- Alan Smith
- Fri, Mar 13 2009
After over two decades without a home of their own, Shamrock Rovers finally move into Tallaght stadium tonight, as they welcome Paul Cook's Sligo Rovers (kick-off 8 pm).
Homeless no more
Having played in Tolka Park, Richmond Park, the RDS, Dalymount Park, Morton Stadium and even Turners’ Cross on one occasion, during the 22 years post-Milltown, the Hoops will finally line-out in a ground they can call their own.
However, Rovers’ boss, Michael O’Neill is still wary of the fact that what happens on the pitch tonight is what really matters. “All the focus in the media this week has been on the opening of Tallaght Stadium, but for the players and the management team it’s been about the game.”
Team News
The home side will be without Pat Flynn and Sean O’Connor who are serving suspensions. Otherwise, the Hoops are at full-strength for the encounter.
“We’re pretty much at full strength and are looking forward to taking on Sligo Rovers. As last week’s opening games suggest, there’s not much between the ten teams and this will be a competitive season.” said O’Neill.
Sligo, after opening their campaign with a 1-1 draw at home to Cork, will be without long-term casualties Chris Butler and Mauro Almeida, while Alan Keane is suspended. Other than that, Paul Cooks’ side have a clean bill of health and will be looking to spoil the Shamrock Rovers party.
Sell-out
The game is a sell-out, with all tickets being sold earlier this week. Rovers’ Chairman John Roche has urged fans to arrive to the South Dublin venue early.
"This is going to be a new experience for everyone," said Roche. "Not just for the fans, but for everyone involved behind the scenes at the stadium. I'd ask people to show patience.
"The gates open at 6.30pm, there'll be entertainment from the start, and we just want everyone who’s fortunate enough to have a ticket to really enjoy this special night for Shamrock Rovers."
Betting
Shamrock Rovers are 11/10 to cap off the opening of the ground with a win. The Bit o’ Red are 11/5, while the draw is priced up at 21/10. Referee for the game is Alan Kelly, the man who became the first Irish official to officiate in a major international tournament in quarter of a century when he officiated in the UEFA Cup tie between FC Zurich and Hamburg last month.
About Alan Smith
Alan Smith works as a sub-editor for the Guardian newspaper in London. Originally from Cork, he freelances for several other newspapers and websites. Follow him on twitter @alansmith90.