LOI preview: Clubs ready to pounce if Hoops slip up

Leaders Shamrock Rovers will take on Dundalk in a game that brings the current dominant force in the game to the home of the team that preceded them.

The Lilywhites won five titles in six seasons between 2014 and 2019, but Stephen Bradley's Hoops are now aiming for their third title on the spin this year.

They've started the season well, and go into tonight's game as the leaders. But in defeats to Derry City and St Patrick's Athletic they've shown they can be vulnerable, and Dundalk will know three points later would see them move ahead of Rovers in the table.

Things should be somewhat more straightforward for Pat's, who have the same points total as Rovers. They're set to welcome UCD to Richmond Park.

Tim Clancy's side come into the game in good form, with victories over Rovers and up in Ballybofey against Finn Harps in their last two games.

College, on the other hand, looked as if they had somewhat shored up their defence after conceding more goals than anyone else in the top six of the First Division last campaign.

But the nature of their first-half performance against Drogheda at Head in the Game Park will need to act as a wake-up call for Andy Myler's charges if they're to start putting results together.

They've scored just two goals in four matches, with star forward Colm Whelan being marked out of most games this season, although they might be a big fresher having had a night off on Friday owing to a water-logged pitch at the Bowl.

Of the other two teams near the top of the early table, both will be fancied to pick up victories.

Sligo Rovers are set to entertain Finn Harps at the Showgrounds off the back of a comprehensive victory over Drogheda on Friday.

The Bit O' Red have been difficult to score against so far in this