St Patrick's Athletic will be hoping to keep their hopes of European football next season alive when they entertain relegation candidates Bray Wanderers at Richmond Park in the Airtricity League Premier Division.

The Saints' dreams of FAI Ford Cup glory were broken when they were beaten by Shamrock Rovers in a semi-final replay on Tuesday night.

But third place in the league is still a possibility, even if Sligo Rovers and Sporting Fingal are marginally better off points-wise at the moment. Pat's may be relying on other teams to do them favours at the moment, but manager Pete Mahon is determined to battle until the end.

'I hope Tuesday night is not seen as an anti-climax in terms of our season and I hope the supporters come out in force again to support the team,' Mahon said.

Mahon will be forced into altering his rearguard as both Damian Lynch, who was sent off in the cup, and Karl Bermingham serve suspensions. Midfielders Ryan Guy, Dave Mulcahy and David McAllister will all be assessed after picking up knocks against Rovers.

Bray have not played since drawing with Drogheda United on 10 October, but the break has done little to help ease their injury list.

Wanderers will definitely take to the field without Jake Kelly and John Mulroy (both hamstring), Derek Prendergast (ankle) and Sean Houston (knee ligaments). Also certain to miss out are suspended duo Dane Massey and Shane O'Connor.

The Seagulls are also sweating on the fitness of Danny O'Connor (thigh) and back-up goalkeeper Brian Kane (ankle).

Unless Drogheda can win their next two games and manage to significantly improve their goal difference it looks like they are the side who will be automatically relegated to the First Division.

With a relegation play-off series in the offing, Bray will be hoping they can get the majority of their first-choice players fit for that crucial period.