Irish Independent - Cup Final preview. - 22 Oct 03

Tony Bird v Brian McGovern
the potential to be an explosive collision between the fiery Welshman and the angular defender. Bird has been in flying form this season and his tally of 14 league goals is a reflection of his satisfaction at playing through the middle. Last season under Pat Dolan, he was employed mostly on the wing.

McGovern, a former Ireland U-21 international captain and Arsenal reserve, will relish the physical challenge. He seems to have matured with age after overcoming the disappointment of being released by the Gunners several years back.

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Saints to end their long wait
PAT'S are undoubtedly the favourites although the injury problems we've been hearing about in their camp are going to undermine their preparations and, if Longford have a clean bill of health, then they'll be feeling good about their chances.

I think the League Cup final is an interesting reference point. Longford owned that game and, from speaking to both managers, it's clear that St Pat's were a little fortunate to get the win in the end. That memory will spur Longford on.

Both teams are physical, but there is enough flair within both line-ups to make for en entertaining encounter with lots of goalmouth action. Longford like to get the ball forward quickly but I don't think they get enough credit for the times when they get it down and play good football.

Hopefully, it will be a good game. Given the excitement that we had in the semi-final between Bohs and Pat's, I hope we haven't been too spoiled.

It's been a long wait for Pat's to win a Cup and I think they'll just about do it.

Prediction: St Pat's Ath 2, Longford Town 1.

Don O'Riordan
Expert View

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