LOI preview: Saints and Bohs on verge of a title race

This week brings one of the most important rounds of League of Ireland Premier Division fixtures of the year as several sides face critical games.

At the top of the table a somewhat stuttering Shamrock Rovers side go to one of the most difficult venues in the division

Shelbourne's record of just two defeats in 13 home games with just 10 goals conceded show how much of a struggle it has been for visiting sides this year.

The Hoops had been struggling in front of goal but fine finishes by Graham Burke and Liam Burt ensured a win over Cork City last week.

Across the city two of their challenges meet in a game live on RTÉ2 in front of a sold out crowd of over 5,000 in Richmond Park.

St Patrick's Athletic and Bohemians have exceeded expectations this season and come into the game with many positives.

Pat's cruised to victory in Sligo as they returned to league action in style after their European campaign ended, as captain Joe Redmond returned from injury.

Bohs. with Jonathan Afolabi hitting his ninth goal in seven matches, saw off Drogheda United and are well-placed in the hunt for a European place.

A win for either side will make put them firmly in a race for the league crown.

Elsewhere there's a huge night for Cork City as they seek to avoid being consigned to the relegation play-off in the coming weeks. UCD are the visitors to Turner's Cross.

Dundalk will look to take advantage of at least of the sides above them dropping points when they meet Sligo Rovers.

The Lilywhites have fallen back slightly and need a return to winning ways.

Sligo are still in danger of being the play-off and have seen their squad weakened by the departure of Max Mata and possibly of goalkeeper Luke McNicholas to Wrexham.

St Patrick's Athletic v Bohemians,