It's finally here!

After 7 years of waiting, pushing and hoping, Dundalk FC finally take their place in the Premier Division with a mouthwatering tie against last years League and Cup winners Bohemians. The fact that Dundalk's new manager has some "history" with Bohemians, and that several members of the brand spanking new Dundalk squad are former Dalymount players, just adds to what will be a night filled with drama and atmosphere. Oh, and there will be a great game of football to see as well, incidentally!

Much has been made in the close season of the differences between the pitch at Oriel Park and the natural grass pitches of the other clubs in the league. Changes to the specifications for FIFA 2 star certification meant that Dundalk had to rip up the existing pitch and replace it with a turf that is 7mm shorter. This has cost the club money in installation fees, but also a loss of revenue. In all of the discussions about whether the artificial surface is better or worse than natural grass, very little mention is given to the fact that this surface has resulted in the club being one of the few in this country who are not making losses. In fact, this income can make the club a profitable one. Various clubs have complained and criticised the pitch, but few who have played on it have many gripes with it. It is the closest thing to a perfect surface that this country will ever see, and the other clubs in the league may see benefit in it as it proves a long term success for Dundalk.

Back to the match then, and as Sean Connor has said the pitch has not caused Dundalk many injury worries. The only player unlikely to start is Darren Mansaram, who picked up a heavy knock in the Malone Cup battle in Drogheda on February 24th. The team and staff are hoping that Darren will be back in action against Galway next week. Bohemians have published a longer injury list which could give a small advantage to the lilywhites - unless, of course, it was fabricated!!

The kick off is at 7.35pm tonight, the referee is Dave McKeon and the venue is Oriel Park, home of football.
Tickets have been on sale all week, season ticket sales are dramatically ahead of last year's figures, and "the town" is more than ready for this clash and this return to top flight football.

The lilywhites need as much support as can be drummed up (pardon the pun!) and the atmosphere promises to be electric!