FAI Cup preview: Dublin rivals to light up second round

The 37th meeting of Bohemians and Shamrock Rovers in the Sports Direct FAI Cup tonight kicks off some mammoth second-round matches over the weekend.

With 32 balls in the cup, the first two out brought together two great rivals and undoubtedly the best of the 16 ties.

Rather than just one all-Premier Division clash, the third pairing was the all-Louth derby of Drogheda United and Dundalk.

Before the draw was done, Derry City and St Patrick's Athletic were matched for the second year on the spin in what proved a remarkable outcome overall.

The teams met in a crucial league game last week that went the way of the Lilywhites and both will be prioritising the Premier Division for the remainder of the year.

But additional momentum and revenge is certainly at play for the clash in Weavers Park.

There will be extra tension after the unsavoury incidents off the pitch at the conclusion of the game and a heightened security presence.

Shelbourne face Bray Wanderers in the Carlisle Grounds on Sunday, far from a gimme for the league leaders on the back on their European game last night.

They also met in the 2022 competition when Damien Duff's side reached the final.

There will be a maximum of seven top-flight clubs left in the Cup at the last-16 stage.

Holders Pat’s face that tricky test against the Candystripes on Sunday as well with just two games on Saturday.

At least three non-league side will progress to the next round.

Carrigaline United host Wilton United in all-Cork affair, while another side from the Rebel County, Midleton FC, face Limerick’s Pike Rovers.

Leeds AFC are also seeking to keep up the high number of Cork sides remaining in the competition when they travel to take on Ballyfermot in Dublin.

Ringmahon Rangers, most-known