EA Sports Cup preview

Match preview by Kieran Burke (@burko77_)

The 2013 season may only be four days old for the midland clubs of Athlone Town and Longford Town but on Monday night these two rivals play out the first 'El Grand Classico' of the season at the Athlone Town Stadium.

It may not be a league encounter but with pride and bragging rights on the line this is sure to be a fiercely fought derby game in the EA Sports Cup.

The two sides come into the derby off contrasting opening weekend results with the home side playing out a disappointing stalemate with Mervue United at the same venue whereas Longford ran out 5-0 winners away to Salthill Devon.

Tony Cousins Longford have gelled quickly with debut goals from David O'Sullivan (hat-trick) and Josh O'Hanlon impressing against Salthill and the new additions will be hoping to prove a point if selected Monday.

The away side will be expected to rotate on Monday and a number of changes may be made to the side that took to the field for the league opener on Friday night.

However, Roddy Collins team selection is not as predictable as the former Monaghan United manager may opt to give his first team players extra game time, a result against their midland rivals could help kick-start Athlone Town's season and a possible assault on the top four places.