Derby days make it tough on Dubs - December 8, 2000
Bohemians v Shelbourne 19:30
Arsene Wenger once said that it was almost impossible for a London team to win the Premiership because there were so many London derbies: Chelsea, Spurs, West Ham and Wimbledon meant that there were at least eight games a season in which you were happy just to get a point.
When St. Pats and Cork City were dominating the Eircom Premier league, Dublin derbies weren't much of an issue. But with Shelbourne, Bohemians and Shamrock Rovers now hogging three of the top four spots the Dublin clubs are bound to take points off each other.
And that could mean that games like tonight's crucial Dalymount clash between Bohs and Shels could leave the door open for the likes of Longford Town to nip in.
Shels have already beaten Bohs in the league this season and they must do it again tonight if they want to retain their title. Dermot Keely will stick with the side that beat Kilkenny last weekend, with Declan Geoghegan at left back and Mark Hutchison pushed forward in place off James Keddy.
Fit-again Dave Hill returns for Bohemians, with Rob Bowman dropping to the subs bench.