Buckley: Monaghan are a threat

ST PATRICK'S Athletic boss Liam Buckley will be wary of Roddy Collins' second game in the capital in a week after his Monaghan United side almost pulled off the shock of the season against Shamrock Rovers last week.

Collins' side led Rovers in Tallaght last Friday up to half-time, but a second-half revival by the Hoops saw Monaghan eventually lose the game.

Mons now face Buckley's in-form Saints at Richmond Park, Inchicore tonight.

"We're expecting a tough game from Monaghan. No doubt about it, Monaghan will be a tricky side to play against as Roddy will have them well organised," Buckley said.

"We're looking to maintain our good start to the season and continue the little bit of momentum we've built up."

Saints' captain Conor Kenna echoed his manager's thoughts that while the Saints have been quick off the mark in the league this season, Monaghan are a side which must not be underestimated.

"Two years ago, we made a great start to the season too. But we just have to take it on a game-by-game basis really, and then see what we can do as we're still getting to know each other," Kenna said.

"The wins help everyone gel together quicker and become more confident as a team in training, but Monaghan are a decent side. They'll be tough opponents."

Aidan Price is the only player on the injury list, while Christy Fagan serves the last of a three-match ban. Jake Kelly returns to the matchday squad.