There are four games up for decision tonight in the Eircom League Cup - and the pick of them sees Premier leaders Shelbourne taking on St. Francis, who are in a different stratosphere lying joint bottom of the First Division.

The cup allows St. Francis to take their minds off the mundane week in, week out losing in the league as they take on the glamour boys of Irish football.

St. Francis played on Wednesday night against St. Patrick's Athletic in their first Group D game and lost 3-1. They will be hoping for better tonight at Tolka Park - but hope is all they have.

Francis are ravaged by injuries while Shels are set to start with nearly a full-strength team for the tie. Dessie Baker should start up front with Stephen Geoghegan more than likely partnering him.

Elsewhere, Drogheda have a tough test at home against UCD. The Drogs are left threadbare up front. Out are Trevor Vaughan, Mark Byrne, Ger Thompson and Michael McCann - which should open the way for former Athlone Town striker John Butler to make his debut.

Limerick will be hoping to win Group F when they play their second game tonight - but if they are to do so they will have to beat premier outfit Galway United. After beating Mervue United 1-0 on Tuesday night, Tommy Lynch's side know a win will see them through to the next round.

Waterford face Cobh Ramblers at the RSC in the final game tonight but, as in midweek, they will struggle to field eleven men. A catalogue of injuries has befallen the club, which could open the door for a Cobh win.