All you need to know: Bumper crowds as LOI returns

Two storms have hit the country this week but they are not likely to dampen the excitement as a new League of Ireland season begins filled with many storylines.

With close to 20,000 fans expected at five Premier Division matches over the weekend, interest in the league is growing.

Managerial changes, including the introduction at Damien Duff, offer the most intrigue, mainly as there are questions of whether a title race will develop because of the strength of Shamrock Rovers.

Many teams have recruited players from abroad due to much talent departing for higher levels, and a new crop of young talent will get their chance.

In the opposition dugout is the highly respected Tim Clancy who has moved from Drogheda United.

He is filling the void left by Stephen O'Donnell's shock departure from the FAI Cup winners St Pat's to Dundalk.

Ruaidhri Higgins has brought great excitement to Derry City ahead of a clash with his former colleague, while Ollie Horgan's Finn Harps, aided by some of the most creative recruitment seen in the league in recent times, are set to host Kevin Doherty's Drogheda United.

Duff's debut in management will be broadcast the first of 15 live league games by RTE Sport this season.

TV

Coverage begins on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player from 730pm.

ONLINE

We'll have a live match tracker on rte.ie/sport and the RTE News app.

WEATHER

Heavy rain in the aftermath of the storm, and snow in the north-west, could endanger some games. It remains to be seen if pitch inspections are needed. Snow in Donegal and Sligo is forecast.

THE GAMES

Shelbourne v St Patrick's Athletic, 7.45pm, Tolka Park

The return of Shels to the top flight and it's a tough challenge for Duff and his 15 new signings.

Over 4,100 will be in attendance in Tolka Park.

Tim Clancy has