Match: Dundalk v Shamrock RoversKick-off: 8pmGround: Oriel ParkCompetition: Premier DivisonTV: Live on eirSport1 SSE Airtricity League Champions Dundalk start their defence against a strengthened Shamrock Rovers side. Dundalk manager Stephen Kenny
Match: Dundalk v Shamrock Rovers
Kick-off: 8pm
Ground: Oriel Park
Competition: Premier Divison
TV: Live on eirSport1
SSE Airtricity League Champions Dundalk start their defence against a strengthened Shamrock Rovers side.
Dundalk manager Stephen Kenny said: “I think it’s important that this weekend the Dundalk support get behind the team in a major way.
"Over half our starting team from last year is missing for Friday night. Some of those have left the club and then the injuries that we have is unfortunate.
"That’s the situation we are in. It is a test for us starting. The first six games we play five of last year’s top six."
TEAM NEWS: Chris Shields (Groin), Gary Rogers (Calf), David McMillan (Kneecap), Sean Hoare (Groin) and Shane Grims (hamstring). Ciaran Kilduff faces a late fitness test.
Shamrock Rovers manager Stephen Bradley said: "We have to put in a good performance on the pitch for the fans and there are still some places up for grabs which is good.
"The competition within the squad is excellent and that is really what you want at Rovers. We’re a different side to what we were the last time we played Dundalk in Oriel Park, we’re going up there looking to get the win.
“We know it’ll be a tough game as they are the champions and they are at home, but we want to win this game. A win will be massively important to us and will help us gauge where we are in comparison to Dundalk.”
TEAM NEWS: All players available for selection
