BY JONNY STAPLETON
Malahide United will look to make home advantage count as they attempt to register an FAI Senior Cup scalp this weekend.
The Leinster Senior League Senior Sunday side won a pre-game battle by ensuring their eagerly anticipated second round tie with Waterford United will take place on their home patch.
United revealed they have been given the green light to host the game at Gannon Park and will battle it out with the League of Ireland side for a place in the third round on Saturday.
Malahide, who will be hoping last season’s top goal scorer, Sam Simpson, won’t suffer a Sampson style decline after getting his long locks sheered for The Little Princess Trust reached this stage by defeating Salthill Devon away in Round 1.
The only other Dublin amateur side left in the blue ribbon cup contest, Lucan United were happy to give up home advantage and are looking forward to a Friday night trip to Dallymount Park where they play Bohemians.
Bohs are not enjoying the best run of league form at present but rather than fear Lucan may take advantage manager Keith Long sees the cup clash as a welcome distraction of sorts.
“It takes the focus off the league, we’ve got Lucan and we’ll do our work now that this game is out of the way and hopefully we’ll put in a performance in Dalymount, get the early part of the week out of the way and focus on the game,” Long said after last weekend’s draw with Shelbourne.
“Because we all need a lift around the place, the supporters come in expectation and they’re disappointed that we haven’t won, and they’re right.
“We’re disappointed with the decision that has given Shelbourne a way back into the game, it gives the crowd energy.
“It gives them something to hang onto as well.”
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